Patricia VanArsdalen was born on July 5, 1934, in Bloomington, Indiana. During their married life, Pat and her husband, Ken, made their home in Bloomington and Indianapolis, Indiana; Memphis, Tennessee; El Paso, Texas; and, eventually, Zionsville, Indiana. In retirement, they enjoyed spending time in Venice, Florida. After Ken’s death, Pat divided her time between Venice and Bloomington. In recent years, she moved to Carmel, Indiana, making her home at Magnolia Springs to be near her daughter, Denise Lunsford, and her family. Pat will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude for her devotion to others, especially those who needed extra care, and for her steady, thoughtful presence.
Pat attended Bloomington High School and earned her teaching degree from Indiana State University, where she met the love of her life, Kenneth VanArsdalen. She later earned a master’s degree in education from IUPUI.
A devoted teacher, Pat cared deeply for children with learning disabilities. She brought patience, purpose, and quiet encouragement to her classroom. Her teaching career culminated at School 45, where she formed close friendships with colleagues who shared her love for their students.
Pat and Ken married in July 1956. Family remained a constant source of joy throughout her life. She especially cherished time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, giving those she loved the gift of her full attention.
A master gardener, Pat also enjoyed traveling.
Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth VanArsdalen; her brother, Kay Daniels (Wanda); her stepsister, Elsie Royal (Dennis); and her parents, Sylvanus and Nancy Daniels. She is survived by her daughter, Denise Lunsford (Paul); her son, Kym VanArsdalen; her grandchildren, Paul Lunsford Jr. (Jennifer), Daniel Lunsford (Jaylan), and Trevor Lunsford; and her great-grandchildren, Norah, Paul III, Isabella, AJ, Emeline, Helen, and Hallie.
Visitation will be held on October 12, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 14598 Oak Ridge Road, Carmel, IN 46032. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. Pat will be laid to rest at Our Lady of Peace Cemetery, 9001 Haverstick Road, Indianapolis, IN.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church at the address above or online at https://olmc1.org/ways-to-give.
