Jean Marie Arins

Jean Marie (Conquest) Arins, beloved wife, sister, aunt and devoted caregiver, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2024. Born on December 28, 1935, in Flint, Michigan, Jean and her twin sister Joyce were inseparable throughout their childhood. As teenagers, the pair partnered to create a babysitting business that monopolized the community, becoming known as a duo taking care of nearly every child in town. She graduated from Clio High School in 1955.

Jean’s life took a wonderful turn when she met Valdis “Val” Arins through her sister Joyce and brother-in-law Steve. Jean was introduced to Val when her family sold Val the property on which he would build their home. They were married for 47 years, sharing a journey filled with love, laughter and devotion. Though Jean and Val never had children of their own, she cared for dozens of children through her in-home babysitting business, touching the lives of many families. Before starting her childcare business, Jean worked as a Department Manager at Woolworth for 19 years, having previously worked with Smith Bridgeman.

In addition to her love for children, Jean had many other passions. She was known for devouring novels and writing thoughtful letters to friends and family, staying connected to those she cherished. A devoted member of her church, Caledonia United Methodist Church, Jean also volunteered in the nursery, continuing her lifelong commitment to caring for children.

When Val passed away in 2021, Jean faced the greatest heartache of her life but she found strength in the love of those around her. Now, in passing, she is joyfully reunited with Val.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband Valdis Arins, her brother Denny Conquest, her parents Thomas and Evelyn (Stiff) Conquest and her in-laws Vilis and Eleonore Arins. She is survived by her sister Joyce and brother-in-law Steve, nieces and nephews Tim (Shannon) and Amy (Rich Ostrander) Anderson, Mike Conquest and great nieces and nephews Penny (Pitts), Jamie and Shane Conquest, Jacob, Owen, Gavin and Regan Anderson, and Marianne Sue Redman. She is also remembered by her friend Joe VanHolstyn.

A memorial service for Jean and her husband Valdis Arins will be held at Caledonia United Methodist Church on Thursday, November 14, at 11 a.m. Visitation will start at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kid's Food Basket in honor of Jean’s lifelong dedication to caring for children.

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