Arnold Willard Guess

Arnold “Arnie” Willard Guess was a modest man with a fabulous mind. He never missed a day’s work, never passed up an opportunity to help out, and earned the respect of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Arnie died peacefully in his sleep on September 5, 2007.

Arnie was born on April 27, 1929 in New Jersey. Upon graduating a private boarding high school, Arnie joined the U.S. Air Force.

Arnie attended Cornell University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautic Engineering. He later received a Ph.D. in astrophysics from Harvard University.

Eventually, Arnie moved to California where he was employed as an engineer by McDonnell Douglas and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

From 1988 until his death, Arnie volunteered at Crystal Cove State Park. He is described by his friends on the Board as an amazing man who always volunteered to do any job that needed to be done.

Arnie adored classical music and attended every classical concert he could fit into his busy schedule. Arnie loved traveling. He knew Europe as well as his own backyard. As a member of the Alpine Club, Arnie climbed some of the highest peaks in the world. However, Arnie’s greatest love was flying airplanes. He was licensed to fly every kind of plane, including acrobatic and sea planes.

Arnie leaves behind his wife, Eloise, who will miss her “walking encyclopedia,” her traveling companion and concert buddy very, very much.