Obituary of Michael D. Arena

Bedford – Michael D. Arena, 77, of Bedford, passed away on Monday, January 30, 2023. Born February 26, 1945, in Bedford, he was the son of Frank and Mildred (McDonald) Arena. Mike graduated from Bedford High School in 1963, and on October 23, 1966, he married Nancy Lynn Jeskewich, with whom he shared 56 wonderful years. Mike was a professional land surveyor who was licensed in Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, and Tennessee. Mr. Arena served 11 terms as the Lawrence County Surveyer (1973-2017) and most recently worked with the firm of Bledsoe Riggert Cooper James until his passing. During his professional life, Mike was also on the Board of Directors of Green Hill Cemetery and was a member of the Bedford Exchange Club, having served stints as President for both organizations. Mr. Arena was also a dedicated and devout member of the Church of Christ, having served as a Deacon for Central Church of Christ and, most recently, Southland Church of Christ, at which he also taught several Bible classes and delivered the occasional sermon. Mike also was a published author of religion, having written the book “Bumper Sticker Religion”, which can be purchased through Dorrance Publishing Co. Michael was a veteran of the U.S. Army and National Guard, and was an active member of the American Legion. Michael was known by all as one of the most caring and kind individuals you could ever meet. Mike was loved dearly by his family and was a wonderful grandfather, father, uncle, brother, and husband. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Frannie, and his daughter, Mandy. Survivors include his wife, Nancy, of Bedford; his brother, Joe Arena, of Anderson; his sister, Donna Bridwell, of Bedford; his son, Sam Arena and wife, Azure, of Carmel; and his granddaughter, Alyson Arena, whom he loved dearly and bragged about on a near-daily basis. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 pm, on Saturday, February 4th in the Elmwood Chapel of the Day & Carter Mortuary with Pastor Bud Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Green Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the hour of service on Saturday at the Day & Carter Mortuary. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Mike’s name to the American Cancer Society. Family and friends may express condolences at www.