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BORN
1952
DIED
2023
FUNERAL HOME
Karl Best Obituary
Karl Dean Best, 71, of Arlington, peacefully passed into eternal slumber Tuesday, March 28, 2023, with family and friends by his side.
Karl is survived by his wife of nearly 54 years, Sue (Cook); three sons, Scott (Christine), Jeremy, and Kelly (Susan); three grandchildren, Faith (Zach), Ethan, and Jacob; older brother, Lee (Deb) and their children, Todd, Lori, Dawn, Onna, Sarah, and Steven.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Opal; and father-in-law, Paul Cook.
Karl was fiercely proud of his family and will be fondly remembered for his dedication to community. Karl and his wife opened their home to exchange students Stephen (Australia), Eugenia (Spain), Minna (Finland), and NuNu (Southeast Asia).
A proud resident of Arlington, Karl graduated from Arlington High School in 1970 and and later became Mayor of Arlington. Karl was an active member of Arlington United Methodist Church where he volunteered with the Life program with his wife. Karl attended University of Bluffton and was owner and operator of Best Ford & Best Motorsports for many years. Throughout his life, Karl supported the United Methodist youth program and all things motorsports with affiliations in NASCAR, late model, as well as sprint and stock car racing across the country. Karl's affinity for great cooking was enjoyed by many throughout the years with the annual Independence Day/Anniversary cook-out and dozens of family get-togethers where new recipes and great memories were shared by all. Recently, Karl spent a lot of time at 50 North exercising and making new friends.
Karl's funeral will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 1, 2023, at Arlington United Methodist Church. Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, March 31, 2023, at CRATES FUNERAL HOME, Arlington, and 10-11 a.m. Saturday at the church. Burial will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to 50 North for food certificates or United Methodist Youth Group education program.
Online condolences can be shared by visiting coldrencrates.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Karl Best
David Drefke
June 30, 2023
May the LORD OUR GOD provide the PEACE AND COMFORT to all of that KARL is now in GOD'S HANDS. KARL has passed away but he will never be forgotten. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU ALWAYS AMEN
David Drefke
June 30, 2023
I was quite saddened to find that Karl passed away
I remembered him back in the 1950's when my Dad Rev. Willard Drefke ministered the Luthern Church in Arlington. His brother Lee and I played together until we moved. I remember Karl as small as he was, he would always wanted to play football. KARL was a GREAT KID. The LORD OUR SAVIOR now has him in his HANDS. May you find comfort and in peace knowing that he was loved by all and that KARL will never be forgotten by so many friends and families. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU ALWAYS AND FOREVER GOD BLESS YOU AMEN.
Curt King
April 3, 2023
I knew Karl back from high school days. Im an old die hard Hardin Northern man, just as he was a with arlington. Would see him every once in a while when passing through town. He would waive and sometimes give a friendly shout. Will miss seeing him walk out of the old dealership. A lot said for a man that sure seemed like he lived his life doing what he enjoyed.
Sandy Winkle
April 2, 2023
Karl's family meant everything to him. He was interested in and cared for everyone he met.
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Greg Snyder
March 31, 2023
My thoughts take me back the Ford Dealership and happy times. Rest in peace Karl.
Holly Haws
March 31, 2023
So sorry to hear about Karl's passing. He was such a great guy and always eager to help anyone in need, even if he just met you. He will be missed. Sending prayers to you, Sue and the rest of his family and friends.
Martie and Bill Spoon
March 31, 2023
Karl was a great man and loved by so many. Always had a great smile and willing hand to help anyone. We have many fun memories of time spent with Karl and Sue.
BILL & Deb Hindall
March 31, 2023
Carl was a very kind people person you will be sadly missed and fondly remembered.
Pamela Waaland
March 30, 2023
What a wonderful man!
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