Don Jon Arneson

Don Jon (DJ) Arneson passed away on February 1 after a long illness. Born in Montevideo, Minnesota in 1935 to the late Donald Arneson and Myrtle Moe, the family moved to Boulder, Colorado when he was 16. He attended the University of Colorado for two years before enlisting in the U.S. Army and eventually was stationed in Stuttgart, Germany. Upon his return he attended Mexico City College from which he graduated with a degree in Philosophy. 

In 1958 he married Beatrice Franchina, a fellow Mexico City College student. After graduation they returned to the United States living and working in New York City prior to settling in Connecticut.

The family lived in Connecticut for several years before fulfilling a dream to live abroad. They chose Sicily where they and their two young sons lived for  two years. During the summers and school vacations they camped and traveled throughout southern Europe and north Africa.

DJ was a published adapter and a designer of children’s and young adult books. While he was editor of Dell Comics he created LOBO, the very first comic book featuring an African-American. The East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention recognized his achievement with their Legacy Award in recent years.

DJ was an avid reader and raconteur who enjoyed discussing politics and philosophy with friends. DJ also loved to paint and sculpt becoming quite accomplished in both art forms.

He is survived by his wife Beatrice of Woodbury, his son Leif and grandson Torgils of Norway, and his son Marc of Los Angeles, in addition to sisters Sara Ravenscraft and Joyce Brougham.

A memorial is planned for the spring. Munson Lovetere Funeral Home assisted with the arrangements. 

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