Donald Melvin Arndt

Donald Melvin Arndt, age 86, passed away on July 25, 2017 at his residence in Whitehall. He was born November 19, 1930 in Powell, Ohio where he was raised by his parents, John Arndt and Vella (VanSchoik) Arndt, along with his brother and 5 sisters.

Through the years, Donald became a passionate collector of planes and cacti. His family fondly remembers him as a stern father turned loving grandpa with the heart of a teddy bear as he always greeted his grandkids with a certain smile and special handshake.

Donald will be deeply missed by his children, Linda (Tom) Taylor, Ken (Terry) Arndt, Terry (Tim) Harrison, Scott (Denise) Arndt, and Donna (Nick) Estell; 11 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren (plus one on the way); many beloved nieces, nephews, and relatives. In addition to his parents and siblings, Donald was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Phyllis Ann (Woolard) Arndt, and his date of passing marked what would have been their 64th wedding anniversary. Phyllis took care of Donald, the family, and their home for many years. In the later years, Donald became the caretaker of his loving wife during her illness.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, August 5, 2017 at Kauber-Fraley Funeral Home in Pataskala, Ohio. Visitation will be 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM prior to the service at the funeral home. Final resting place will be at Pataskala Cemetery. Please visit www.kauberfraley.com to leave online condolences for Donald and his family.

Donald proudly served his country in the U.S. Marines. To celebrate his service, he visited Washington D.C. through Honor Flights Network; an experience that he cherished. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Donald’s honor requested to the Honor Flight Network through their website www.honorflight.org .

r-Fraley Funeral Home, Pataskala, OH.