William J. Arnold

William Jerome Arnold, 86, passed away on November 3, 2012. He was born in the Bronx , NY on September 8, 1926; he was the youngest of 10 children born to the late Samuel Arnold and Mary (Mallon) Arnold. On November 13, 1948 he married his best friend, best dance partner and the love of his life Hazel Agnes Bethel. They married at St. John Chrysostom in the Bronx . He is survived by his wife Hazel Agnes. He was the father of three children: daughter Ellen Mary (Robert) Wagner, and son Richard Anthony, and the late Kevin Jerome; grandchildren, Jennifer (Michael) Tampone, Lisa (William) Flemen, Susan (Glenn) Messenger; and two great grandchildren (Nicholas and Grace). Also surviving is his sister, Margaret Carboni of Ridgefield , CT.

Bill served in the United States Navy from 1943-1946. He was a S1/c aboard the U.S.S. San Juan. His served in 11 battles and was decorated for his contribution to the success of each of the missions. Throughout his life he remained very proud to have served in the United States Navy. He put himself through welding school where he developed a skill as a heliarc welder. He retired from Consolidated Edison as an A mechanic in 1988 with 40 years of service.

One of his greatest passions during his free time was dancing. He was actively involved in the V.F.W, the Democratic Club and the Knights of Columbus. He served as an usher at Queen of Angels for 15 years. Bill was a highly likable man, a good guy who always had a kind word for everyone. Until recent years, when his health began to decline, he would walk three and a half miles daily around the Big Six Towers , and throughout would always have a moment to speak with his friends and neighbors.

His family will best remember him as a devoted husband, and a kind and loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather.