Matters of the Heart – Arlene and Ron Kaiser

In 1964, Ron Kaiser met Arlene Potts at Stockbridge High School.  At age 17, they went to the movies on their first date and two and a half years later they were married, a marriage that has lasted 52 years. Tracy, their oldest child, resides in Jackson, Michigan, with her husband Scott.   Jennifer, the middle child, lives in Virginia with her significant other BJ.  The youngest, Michelle, lives in Tennessee with her husband Jake.  Ron and Arlene are blessed with 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

How did they do it?  Arlene says, “Hang in there.  The bad stuff eventually goes away.”  Ron’s advice is to “appreciate one another and behave yourself.”  They both believe in the importance of laughter along the way.

For many years, Ron and Arlene have been active in the community.  Some of their activities have included Band Boosters, Girl Scouts and, most recently, the Waterloo Area Historical Society.  In 2002 Ron was appointed as a trustee to the WAHS board.  Currently, he serves as Chairman of Property Management and Site Development. He is also head of Safety and Security and coordinates the Antique Truck and Tractor Show.  Arlene has been equally involved, Co-chairing the Education Program/School Tours, concessions for events, and is responsible for acquisitions and collections.  She also serves as the Private Events Coordinator.  Together, Ron and Arlene’s passion for the Farm Museum is truly a shared interest.