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      Jeffery R Arent was a natural leader whose winning presence allowed him to take control of various situations with ease. Equipped with a clear and calculating focus, he possessed a tough-minded, “take charge” attitude. He had the ability to make even routine situations seem exciting, and he was at ease with the role of playing problem solver. Jeff always sought out the scene of where the action was. Sociable, analytical and pleasant, Jeff was an individual who enjoyed life's challenges.

      Jeff was born on March 11, 1943 in Minneapolis, MN. His parents were Lawrence and Lucille Arent. Jeff was raised in Columbia Heights, MN. Always able to express himself well, Jeff possessed strong interpersonal skills. He was optimistic in his outlook on life and was able at all times to be open and direct in his communication. Armed with a great wit, Jeff was raised to be accepting of others and to implement a strong personal work ethic.

      Blessed with a balanced attitude, Jeff was able to relate well with others. His occasional role as family mediator gave him the opportunity to ease tense situations when they occurred. Jeff was raised with three siblings. He had two younger brothers, Jaime and Jonathan, and one younger sister, Susan. Jeff had a strong desire to be treated fairly and would readily offer others the same fairness in return.

      Very much like a kid himself, Jeff identified with the inquisitive and creative side of his children's personalities. He was able to direct his energy and spontaneity towards helping his children acquire added common sense skills. Jeff was blessed with two children, daughter, Robin and son, Jeff Jr. They were also blessed with four grandchildren, Ashley, Allison, Jake and Wesley.

      Jeff was a flexible worker who was able to draw the best from others around him. A persuasive individual who was quick to make necessary decisions, Jeff's strengths included being able to think on his feet. He could be a leader who sought impact for his decisions. Gifted with an incredible ability to read body language, Jeff was able to positively manipulate situations and motivate others in order to get a task completed. He was a good negotiator who enjoyed new challenges. Jeff could multi-task, and he was endowed with entrepreneurial spirit, allowing him to think beyond standard norms when it came to resolving issues in his work environment. His was the founder and owner of Riccar Heating and Air Conditioning Company.

      Jeff passed away on January 2, 2009 at home at the age of 65 years. His death was very unexpected. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lucille Arent; and brother, Jaime Arent. Jeff is survived by his longtime companion, Judy Lund; son, Jeffrey, Jr. (Tracy) Arent; and daughter, Robin Arent; grandchildren, Ashley, Allison, Jake and Wesley; father, Lawrence J. Arent; brother, Jonathan (June); sister, Susie (Kurt) Sundeen; nephew, Kristofer; and niece, Melissa. Services were held 11 AM Friday January 9, 2009 at Gearhart Funeral Home, 11275 Foley Blvd N. W., Coon Rapids with visitation two hours prior. Fr. Bernard Reiser presided. Jeff was laid to rest at 12 Noon on January 9, 2009 at Morningside Memorial Gardens in Coon Rapids, MN. Memorials are preferred to the Animal Humane Society.

      Jeff was the kind of person who could win others over easily. A concrete communicator, he relied on his senses to increase his involvement and awareness of others. He was always able to provide amusing repartee to his friends and acquaintances, offering a seemingly endless supply of quips, anecdotes, jokes and stories. If Jeff had a theme song written about him, it might well have been “Don't Worry, Be Happy.” He enjoyed his life and the experience of living it. This is how everyone will remember Jeffery R Arent.