William Henry Arnold 1923-2011

William Henry Arnold 1923-2011

William Henry Arnold, a generous and faithful man, died on April 7th of natural causes in Van Nuys, CA. He was 88.

Bill came from very humble beginnings. He was born in Henryetta, Oklahoma on February 12, 1923. He moved with his family to Glendale at the age of 7, where he lived for the better part of 80 years. As a small boy, he worked as a milk truck runner. He would show up at work well before sunrise, and for his efforts he would usually bring home a much needed half gallon of milk.

Willie, as his wife called him, was a faithful husband. After graduating from Glendale High School in 1941, he married Catherine Melissa Arnold. Their early years together were spent traveling around the country, eating at fine restaurants, and spending time with friends.They were happily married for 57 years, with dad rarely leaving Mom’s side. In 1999, mom passed away peacefully in their home. Dad was by her side, as usual.

Bill worked for the Daily Racing Form for 37 years and was a lifetime member of the Elks Club. His passion, though, was horse racing. “I can remember many summer afternoons at Del Mar racetrack with my dad, rooting for whichever horse he had backed. Winning days, and there were more than a few, always meant a great dinner at a nice restaurant.”

Bill was a wonderfully supportive father. He never missed his son’s baseball games, starting with Little League all the way through to college baseball. According to his son Tom, “Just seeing my dad at my games gave me great strength.” Bill and his son made many trips to the baseball field with Tom chasing endless fly-balls, fielding grounders, and of course batting practice. Bill taught many life lessons through baseball, how to win, how to lose, and to never quit. “I am extremely thankful for my dad. He left me an incredible example on how to be a father. He was aways there.”

Bill was a generous man. He sent his family on trips around the world, though he never chose to go himself. He was always quick to pay for meals with friends. He gave to countless charities, but insisted on absolutely no recognition.

Bill is survived by his one son, Thomas Arnold, his daughter-in-law Brenda, two grandchildren, and a multitude of friends.

Bill will be missed very much, but we look forward to seeing him in heaven.