Arnold is survived by his daughters, Linda (Jim) Barry and Debbie Stachler, his sister, Betty Fose, grandchildren, Amy (James) Klontzaris, Ryan (Sarah) Stachler, Andrea (Steve) Crawford, and Mark Barry. Arnold also had eight great grandchildren——-Kayla, Maddie, Michael, Maci, Lucy, Logan, Kennedy and Max. Arnold was preceded in death by wife, Betty Mae (1926-2006) and granddaughter, Kimberly Barry (1980-2005).
Arnold grew up in Detroit and attended Cass Tech High School. After his service in the army, Arnold attended what was then Michigan State College, now Michigan State University, and he enjoyed following MSU sports and news. Arnold’s professional career was spent as a casualty insurance underwriter. He lived in Roseville for over 50 years.
Arnold served in the 66th “Panther” Division of the US Army in World War II. On Christmas Eve, 1944, he was one of 2235 GI’s aboard the SS Leopoldville, crossing the English Channel as reinforcements for American forces at the Battle of the Bulge. Torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine, 763 died that night. Arnold was one of the 1472 to be rescued from the icy waters, and awarded the Purple Heart. He had just turned 19. This terrible tragedy shaped Arnold’s life. In later years, he became very involved with 66th Division reunions and his local VFW in Roseville, MI. Arnold proudly wore his WWII Veteran cap, and heard many times, from complete strangers, “Thank you for your service.”
The family will greet friends at Kaul Funeral Home of Clinton Township on Friday, February 21st from 4:00pm until 8:00pm. Funeral service Saturday, February 22nd at St. Luke Lutheran Church, 21400 Nunneley Road in Clinton Township, 10:00am instate until the time of mass at 11:00am.
Fond memories and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.KaulFuneralHome.com