James Arrowood Obituary

     James "Jim" Everett Arrowood Jr., 78, of Wilton, Iowa, passed away at home on July 7, 2025, with his devoted wife by his side, after a long battle with dementia.   A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with Military Honors. Memorials are suggested to the Wilton American Legion Post #584 and the Wilton Ambulance Service.  

     Jim was born on January 25, 1947, in Spokane, Washington. He proudly volunteered for service in the U.S. Navy, where he served aboard the USS Fechteler during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he settled in Illinois and worked as a chef on Arsenal Island, catering meals and events for military officers and dignitaries.

     During this time, Jim met Chuck Acri and was hired to portray one of the television characters on Chuck Acri’s Creature Feature—Vincent Hedges. Through this unique role, Jim found great joy in giving back, visiting children in hospitals and raising funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

     Later, Jim managed a restaurant in Bettendorf, where he met, Regeana Baker. The two were married in May of 1975 and made their home in Wilton, Iowa. To this union two children were born. Together, they owned and operated The Wooden Nickel Saloon for many years. After selling the business, Jim began working at North Star Steel, where he retired after 25 years.

     Jim's dedication to serving others continued throughout his life. He volunteered as a First Responder and CPR Instructor for 12 years in the Wilton community and served with the Muscatine County Sheriff’s Patrol, where he earned multiple rescue commendations. He was a member of the American Legion for many years and enjoyed marching in parades.

     Known for his mechanical talent, Jim was a natural tinkerer who could fix nearly anything—especially small engines. It wasn’t uncommon to see lawnmowers lined up in his driveway, already repaired before he even knew who had dropped them off. He had a generous spirit and a hands-on way of helping others.

     Jim enjoyed fishing, camping, and boating with his family. He had a deep love for cars and often spent afternoons meticulously washing and waxing his own vehicles—then continuing on to do the same for his neighbors’ cars, just to lend a hand.

     Jim is survived by his  wife of 50 years, Regeana; daughters, Joni Arrowood-Wahl and Tanya (Greg) Stephens; sons, Tyler (Alyssa) Arrowood, Jim (Heather) Allen, and Beau Allen; grandchildren, Alyssa, Jack, Hayley, Josie, Maria, Nakia, Alexa, Hunter, Hadley, and Remington; and four great-grandchildren.