Michael E. Arft, age 71, of Joplin, passed away on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at Freeman in Joplin.

Michael, son of the late Edward and Ruby (Gleghorn) Arft, was born on April 5, 1949 in Springfield, MO. He was the youngest of three children. Mike attended Joplin Senior High School and graduated in 1967. After high school he served in the United States Army protecting his country. After honorably serving he returned back to Missouri. In 1969 he was united in marriage to Rose Scherle in Joplin. He was employed as a city inspector for the city of Joplin for over 30 years until his retirement in 2011. He was an avid lover of the outdoors with some of his favorite pastimes of hunting and fishing. All though his favorite pastime was spending time with his grandkids. He was their biggest fan and they were his heart and joy.

Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Rose Arft, of Joplin; one daughter, Brandy Gruenhagen, and her husband, Aron, of Nevada, MO; two grandsons, Hunter and Beau Gruenhagen, also of Nevada, MO; one granddaughter, Krisrtin Arft, of Siloam Springs, AR. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Chris Arft; one granddaughter, Madison Gruehhagen; one sister, Vicky Short; and one brother, Dennis Arft.

Memorial services will be held at a later date at One Church in Joplin. In leu of flowers, Mike would hope that you will do an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness for some unfortunate soul in his name.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.