James Arthur Arnold Sr.

James was a loving and dedicated father, grandfather and great grandfather. He proudly served his country in the United States Army where he received the Victory Medal, Ribbon W/1 Bronze Battle Star, 2 Overseas Service Bars, Army of Occupation Medal (Germany) and a Good Conduct Medal, along with various other awards and decorations.

He married the love of his life, Bettie, in 1944 and to this union bought one son, James Jr. James worked in labor at Laclede Gas Company, in Saint Louis for over 12 years until his retirement. He was a member of the American Legion and AARP. He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his wife of almost 66 years; Elizabeth J. “Bettie” (nee Boerschig) Arnold; his parents, Thomas and Theresa (nee Barr) Arnold and his siblings, Tom Arnold and Hope Arnold.

Surviving are his son, James “Jim” (Mary Ann) Arnold Jr; his grandsons, Daniel J. Arnold (Laura) and Timothy J. (Christine) Arnold; his great grandchildren, Mackenzie, Zachary and Colten and a number of dear relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Vitas Hospice. Additional condolences and memorials may be made online at www.valhallagardensandfuneralhome.com

Visitation: Friends and family may visit from 9 am to 11 am, Thursday, August 3, 2017 at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home, Belleville, Illinois.

Funeral Service: All services will be held immediately following the visitation at 11 am. Interment will follow in Valhalla Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Belleville, Illinois.