Arnold "Arnie" Wilhelms, 65, of Freeport, IL, died February 22, 2022, at home with family. He was born December 11, 1956, in Freeport, he was the son of Marilyn Pugh and raised by John and Helen (Moss) Wilhelms. Arnie married his wife Debra (Janicke) on June 22, 1985. Arnie at an early age enjoyed working with his hands and repairing various vehicles and equipment. He went on to also enjoy farming, trucking, operating equipment, and stopping by the local scrap yard. When he wasn't working, he spent the rest of his valuable time with his family, friends, and beloved pets.

Arnie is survived by his wife; daughters, Renee (Keith) Huenefeld, Tara (Jacob) Petticrew, KoDee (Mitchell) Plambeck, Brandi Wilhelms (Bill Loppnow); siblings, Leon Wilhelms, Karen O'Connor, and Rexanna (George) Lamm; grandchildren, Kilar Huenefeld, Olivia Loppnow, Taitlyn and Boone Petticrew, and Gaines Plambeck. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law, brother-in-law, brother who had died at birth, and beloved pets.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday February 26, 2022, at 3:00 PM, at Schwarz Park Blvd Chapel, 608 S. Park Blvd in Freeport, IL, with Pastor Jon Eastlick officiating. Visitation will be held preceding the memorial service on Saturday February 26, 2022, from 1:00-3:00 PM, also at the Schwarz Park Blvd Chapel. Cremation rights have been accorded. Burial of cremains will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in his memory. Please visit schwarzfh.com to sign his online guestbook and to share memories.