Arnold Fleck

Arnold "Arnie" Tony Fleck, 73, of Sioux City, Iowa, passed away on May 18, 2025, surrounded by family and love.

Arnie was born on October 31, 1951, in Mandan, North Dakota to Michael and Katie (Steckler) Fleck. He grew up in Flasher alongside his 6 siblings, learning the values of hard work, curiosity and grit that would shape his life's journey.

After graduating from high school, Arnie joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Vicenza, Italy. Upon returning home, he pursued education with vigor at North Dakota State University (B.S), Kansas State University (M.S.) and ultimately earned a PhD in Ruminant Physiology from Oklahoma State University in 1987. His career led him from Dickinson, ND, to Stillwater, OK, then to St. Louis, MO before settling in Sioux City, Iowa, where he made his lasting professional and personal mark.

Arnie married Sandy (Nathan) Fleck, and together they built a rich and lively life. They raised 3 sons, Austin, Tanner, and Garrett-and filled their home with laughter, learning, and love. His family was his greatest pride.

Arnie dedicated over 40 years to the cattle industry, becoming a respected and trusted voice across the Midwest. He spent 13 years with Purina Mills before being hired by Midwest PMS and then launching North Central Consulting in 2000, where he continued as a cattle consulting nutritionist through 2025. Throughout his career, Arnie built deep, lasting relationships with cattle producers, often working with three generations of feedlot operators within the same families. His work brought him joy-not just from the science and problem solving, but from the friendships, stories, and shared wisdom of ranch life. He was the happiest swapping stories with cattlemen, talking beef, bourbon, weather and politics.

Beyond his professional life, Arnie was a true craftsman and tireless doer. He applied his creativity and intellect to projects big and small, from building intricate wooden treasure chests for his grandchildren to refining every inch of STAAG Acres, the family's lovingly manicured homestead. His grill was always hot, his bourbon always poured generously, and his door always open. He hosted with warmth and charm uniquely his own, often delighting guests with horse and buggy rides.

To his grandchildren, Arnie was simply and affectionately known as "Poppy" - a title he wore with pride. Whether he was giving tractor rides, making stir-crazy popcorn, or crafting keepsakes with his own hands, Poppy filled their lives with wonder, wisdom, and unconditional love.

Arnie was preceded in death by his son, Austin Fleck; siblings, Geraldine, Darlene, Noreen and Norman.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sandy; sons, Tanner (Hollie) Fleck and Garrett (Caitlin Clancy) Fleck; grandchildren, Hank, Adeline, Audrey, and Julia; siblings, Mike Fleck and Marlene Fleck Braun.

Arnie's legacy lives on in the many lives he touched with his humor, generosity, insight, and tenacity. He was a husband, father, grandfather, mentor, teacher, neighbor, and friend. His absence will be deeply felt, but his memory-bold, bright and lasting will continue to inspire.

All contributions will be given to STARS (Special Troopers Adaptive Riding School) where Arnie was a board director.