Richard C. Arnold

Richard served his country for four years in the Air Force. After his time in service to his country, he began his career in sales. He was honored many times as top sales man and his territory was expanded to include Florida, Georgia, and Puerto Rico. Finally, he created his own business in computer programming until he retired.

He was an avid tennis player, water skier and enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Richard also known as Uncle Red, Dick, Father, and Dada was a loving husband, father, grandfather and family man.

The following excerpt from a speech written for the Rotary Club by his grandson best describes Richard:

“ My grandfather passed me his baton. When I was little my mom and dad were both working full time jobs, so they couldn’t pick me up from school. Luckily for me my grandfather volunteered to keep an eye on me after school and that decision forever changed my life. He taught me how to ride a bike without the training wheels and how to always get back on if I fell. He even rode with me one time through the drive through of a Burger King on our bikes. My grandfather passed on to me the value of spending time with the people we love by spending so much time with me.

As I started getting older we began to do more together and the lessons were continuous. Dada taught me how to throw a football, to catch a baseball. With people he taught me to be respectful, reminding me that ‘Sometimes it’s best to say nothing at all.’ Whenever I needed help on my homework, or forcing myself to do it, he was there. And whenever I was in trouble, he taught me how to solve the problem not just be rescued from it. Through his giving, I learned the value of service, and through his service, I learned the joy of giving.”

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Onie Arnold. Richard is survived by his loving wife of 49 and ½ years, Peggy; two daughters, Donna (Bill) Madison and Stephanie Arnold; grandson, Justin Parker; brother, Charles Arnold; sisters Jane (Jim) Wheeler and Gloria Funk; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to LifePath Hospice 3010 W. Azeele Street, Tampa, FL 33609.

A memorial gathering will take place on Saturday November, 6, 2010 at 11AM at Sunset Memory Gardens (11005 US Hwy 301 N., Thonotosassa, FL 33592) with a memorial service begining at 11:30AM with Rev.Dan Griffin officiating.