Arnie peacefully went to be with his Heavenly Father at home holding the hand of his "forever love" Jan. Arnie was born as the second child to Arnold and Pearl Mason in Burley, ID. His family moved to Payette, ID where Arnie attended school from second grade through his graduation in 1960. In 1959, Arnie began his career in broadcasting as a part-time DJ at a local Payette radio station. He moved from radio to television as a reporter, producer and anchor for KID in Idaho Falls in 1968, this path continued at KOIN in Portland through 1976. In 1979 he returned to Idaho Falls as the News Director at KIFI and then in 1981 became the News Director for KBCI, Boise. In 1984 Arnie went back to his love of being a news anchor and reporter and as an avid fisherman found his heaven on earth in Anchorage, AK. In 2002, he completed his life journey by marrying his "Northern Star", Janice "Jan" Atherton. Together they remained in Alaska enjoying the abundant beauty, wildlife and fishing until 2009 when they returned home to Payette to be closer to family. Arnie was preceded in death by his mother and father; his older sister, Sandra Clayton; and grandson, Jeffrey Gray. He is survived by his wife and love, Jan; siblings, Julie MacIntosh (Mac), Jeff Mason, and Bob Clayton; his second mom, Marcella Atherton; children, Marcie Scarrow (Stacy), Tre' Mason (Donna), Jana Laughlin (Michael), Joey Gray (Alla), Julie Webber (Ron), and James Gray (Debbie); grandchildren, Jennifer Granger (Jeremiah), R.J. Bennett and nine additional grandchildren he opened his heart to when marrying Jan; and one great grandchild, Billy Granger. Arnie had spent his life dealing with juvenile diabetes and felt that donating his remains to Medcure may in some small way help to alleviate others from suffering. A memorial service will be held July 27th at 2:00 p.m. with reception following at the Pilgrim Lutheran Church 208 SW 1st Ave., Ontario. The family would like to thank Heart 'n Home Hospice for the wonderful care and support that was given to Arnie and his family and a special thank you to our "Special Nurse" Sue, who helped us in fulfilling Arnie's wishes on the final journey; she will forever remain in our hearts. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Heart 'n Home Hospice, Fruitland.
Service Details.
Service
When:
Saturday, July 27th, 2013
Location:
Funeral Home
Address: