SGT MAJ (Ret.) Alfred (Grasshopper) Arellano, aged 85, peacefully passed away on April 4, 2024. Born on August 1, 1938, at Pasamonte Ranch in New Mexico, Al's upbringing was marked by resilience and love. Born to Juanita and Moses Arellano after his parents divorced, he was raised by his father and loving stepmother, Pauline, in Ulysses, Kansas. He always said he had the best two sets of parents possible.
Al's stepfather, Ivan Noble, a WWII veteran, instilled a sense of pride in him when he enlisted at just 15 years old, spurred by a recruiter's error in providing paperwork for parental consent. By the age of 16, in 1954, he completed Jump School and joined the 11th Airborne Division, serving as a paratrooper in Germany. Throughout his illustrious career, he served with distinction in various units, including the 101st Airborne Division, Special Forces in Germany and Devens, MA, Laos, and Vietnam, and ROTC at the University of Hawaii.
His military accolades speak volumes of his bravery and dedication, including three Bronze Stars for Valor, two Legion of Merit awards, four Meritorious Service Medals, two Purple Hearts, a Combat Infantry Badge, and a Master Parachutist Badge, among numerous others.
Al was preceded in death by his father, Moses; stepmother, Pauline; mother, Juanita, and stepfather, Evan Noble. He is survived by his wife, Patricia A. Arellano; children, Rhonda, Larry, Ronald, Cheri, and Patricia; four stepchildren and their families, brothers, Moses, Phil, Clarence, and Donald Noble; sisters, Lita, Shirley, Mary, Donice, Ruby, and Rosealie as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
His legacy of service, love, and resilience will forever be cherished by those who knew him.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at Rogers and Breece Funeral Home from 8:30 to 8:45 am. A funeral service will be held in the Chapel at 9 am. Burial to follow the service at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors.
