Leo Otto Arens

Leo Otto Arens passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 84. He was born on December 2, 1941, in Wynot, Nebraska and spent most of his youth in Hartington, Nebraska.

Leo attended University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he earned a degree in Business Management. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Vietnam veteran from 1967-1968.

He worked as an accountant before founding Arens Solar, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit and early commitment to renewable energy. Leo was the president of Nebraskans for Solar and co-president alongside his wife, Donnis Arens at Nebraska StoryArts.

Leo was a morning person who appreciated a good cup of coffee, meaningful conversation, meeting new people, and sharing stories. He loved road trips, storytelling, gardening, and music, and always found ways to surround himself with music throughout his life. He took immense pride in his yard and the many trees and plants he nurtured over the years.

Above all, Leo loved his family deeply. His wife, daughters, son, grandson, siblings, and extended family were at the center of his life. He was a wonderful dad and a genuinely kind person whose warmth and curiosity stayed with people.

In 1973, Leo donated a kidney to his sister, giving her the gift of life for another 50 years - a reflection of the generosity and compassion that defined him.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents, Leo F. and Blanche A. Arens; his brother, Arlo Arens; and his sister, Darlene Miller.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Donnis Arens; his children, Melanie Arens (Mark Nemeth), Tanya Arens (Micah Hilton), Natasha Thornton (Matthew), and Cherron Arens; grandson Liam; brother Duane Arens (Elaine); along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and beloved granddogs.

The family is deeply grateful for the care and kindness shown to Leo by the VA, CLC, The Brant, and St. Croix.

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, June 9, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Good Shepard Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, June 10 at Good Shepard at 12:30 p.m., followed by a 2:30 p.m. graveside service at Omaha National Cemetery. A reception will follow at 4:00 p.m. at The Brant, 6991 S 178th Plz., Omaha. All are welcome.

In honor of Leo's lifelong generosity and his gift of organ donation, memorials may be directed to the National Kidney Foundation.