Arthur D. Ethier

May 7, 1919 - April 16, 2010

McCOOK, Nebraska -- Arthur "Art" Ethier died Friday (April 16, 2010) at Mary Lanning Hospital in Hastings. He was 90 years old.

Art was born on May 7, 1919, at Esmond, Rhode Island, to Peter and Diana Ethier. He was baptized in the St. Michels Church in Georgeville, Rhode Island. On Nov. 25, 1941, he entered the U.S. Army Air Force and served during World War II. He was honorably discharged on Dec. 6, 1945, after four years of service to his country.

He married Ruth White on Feb. 14, 1952. She preceded him in death. He later married Beulah "Cindy" (Wiest) Tennant on Sept. 16, 1977, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Art worked as a carpenter for Bill Johnson and was also a heavy equipment operator for Lou Oberding. He later became a self-employed painter for many years until his retirement.

Art was a member of the McCook Eagles Club and lifetime member of McCook Elks Lodge. He enjoyed camping and fishing at various lakes throughout Southwest Nebraska. He also enjoyed playing golf, playing cards and visiting with family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Diana Ethier; his first wife, Ruth Ethier; seven brothers, George, Francis, Nelson, Peter, Albert, William and Eugene; one sister, Diana Regnault; and one step-great-grandson.

Survivors include his wife, Cindy of McCook; two step-children, Sharon and husband, Aaron Johnson of McCook and Ronald "Gene" Tennant and wife, Betty of Kearney; five step-grandchildren and eight step-great-grandchildren; one brother, Edward Ethier of Okeechobee, Florida; numerous nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Memorials may be given in his name to the McCook Humane Society.

Friends may sign his book at the funeral home during business hours or send condolences to www.carpenterbreland.com.

Services will be Friday, April 23, 2010, 10:30 a.m. at Carpenter Breland Chapel with Jerry Beckenhauer officiating. Inurnment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of the arrangements.