Arvin Emil Fabian, 85, of Winona County, Minn., passed away peacefully on January 21, 2022, at Casa de la Luz Hospice in Tucson, Ariz. Arvin, known simply as Arv, was born July 30, 1936, to Emil W.H. and Ruby W.E. Fabian.
Arv served in the National Guard. He married his wife and partner in life, Janice Gunderson, on October 19, 1957. Together they had four children, Wendy (Steve) Plantz, Lisa Fabian, John Fabian, and Kathryn Fabian.
Arv began his career selling auto parts and even began his own auto parts store, Arv’s Auto Supply, in Lanesboro, Minn., in 1977. Later, when the auto parts business began to dwindle, he began selling his own homemade German sausage and sauerkraut to make ends meet. This eventually took on a life of its own and Arv opened the restaurant, Das Wurst Haus, in 1984. There Arv and Jan served not only his homemade sausages and sauerkraut, but also homemade root beer and best-selling Gentle Giant mustard. Beside his affinity for homemade German fare, Arv was also an accomplished musician. Arv played guitar, banjo, tuba, zither, and some piano – all played by ear. When Arv lost the tip of one of his fingers and could no longer play stringed instruments, he taught himself the concertina. Arv and Jan spent many years traveling around Southern Minnesota playing various gigs in their own band and at nursing homes. Their specialty was polka music. Arv and Jan’s music was also a central feature of their restaurant and was one of the many reasons Das Wurst Haus drew visitors from all over the world. Arv was known for his incredible hospitality, his sense of humor, and his talent as a storyteller. With his vitality and vigor for life, Arv touched many people’s hearts and lives. Arv was a one-of-a-kind person and leaves behind a legacy that will last for many years to come. Arv loved the Lord and often commented, “I’ve had a great life.” While he now rests with his Heavenly Father, he will be sorely missed by many here on Earth.
Arv is survived by his wife and kids, as well as one granddaughter, Emily Plantz,; along with brothers Gary and Scott, one sister, Shelly (Dave) Berhow, ;nd numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Sharon Budnick.
A memorial service will be planned at a later date. Memorials may be made to St. Matthew’s Lutheran School, Winona, Minn.
Peter Ruen says
Arv would call out my mom and dad everytime they walked in the door. As if we were home for supper. Rest Friend.
Brian Hoff says
Rest in Peace my Friend.
Sharanne Calabrese says
Arv was a legend in the Lanesboro area- legendary for his charm and gracious hospitality – as well as his brats, sauerkraut, root beer. A fond memory of Arv. -,eating lunch at Das Wurst Haus on a grey winter day with our kids. Arv and another man treated his customers to an instrument accompanied serenade of old tyme / polka favorites ( Wooden Heart?) That afternoon still brings a tear to my eye.
Extending my sincere sympathies to Arv’s loved ones.