• Memorial visitation to be held on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 from 12:30-1:30pm at Peace Lutheran Church (17651 W Small Rd, New Berlin, WI).
• Memorial service will be held immediately following visitation at 1:30pm.

Louis J. Aranda

Found eternal peace with the Lord on April 24^th, 2026, at the age of 65. Devoted husband of Ann (nee Gutenberger) for 23 years. Loving father of Benjamin. Beloved son of Sylvia (nee Rodriguez) and the late Arturo Aranda. Proud brother to Arthur (Melinda), Ann, and the late Daniel.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in Helenville, Wisconsin, Louis carried with him a lifelong appreciation for both artistry and the natural world.

A graduate of Jefferson High School in 1980, he went on to pursue his passion for the arts at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater in 1984, studying fine arts. His love of learning continued throughout his life, including advanced studies in sculpture and design at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and architecture at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee.

On May 11, 2002, he married the love of his life, Ann Gutenberger, and together they built a home in Muskego filled with warmth, creativity, and love. In 2006, they welcomed their son, Benjamin, who became one of the greatest joys of his life.

He dedicated his career to the art of furniture making and antique restoration, a craft he practiced with remarkable skill and passion for over 30 years. As a self-employed artisan, he restored cherished pieces and created custom furniture that will continue to be treasured for generations. He shared his knowledge with others as an instructor of furniture restoration at MATC in Fort Atkinson. His work extended beyond Wisconsin, including designing department store windows in New York, contributing banner designs for Macy’s parade floats, and participating in a church restoration company in New Jersey. For a decade, he also restored antiques for the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum in Milwaukee, leaving an enduring mark on the preservation of history and beauty.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, he found his greatest happiness in simple, meaningful moments. He loved spending time “up north,” fishing, working in the yard, and surrounding himself with the trees and gardens he cared for so deeply. Above all, he cherished time with his family, creating memories that will live on in their hearts.

He will be remembered for his artistic spirit, his dedication to his craft, and the love he shared with those closest to him. His legacy lives on through his family, his work, and the many lives he touched along the way.

Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, May 2^nd, 2026, at Peace Lutheran Church (17651 W Small Rd, New Berlin, WI) from 12:30pm until the time of service at 1:30pm.

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