Michal Walsh Arnett

January 15, 1943 - January 21, 2025

Michal Arnett, born on January 15, 1943, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at her home in Westlake Village, California, on January 21, 2025, with her beloved husband, Hong Tan, by her side. Her arrival into the world during World War II coincided with her father’s service as an Air Force fighter pilot stationed in Atlantic City.

Michal’s life was a journey across places and cultures that shaped her vibrant spirit. She lived in Fargo, North Dakota, before beginning her college education at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Later, she moved to Peoria, Illinois, where she welcomed her daughter, Danielle Florence, on September 21, 1964. A new chapter unfolded when the family relocated to Caracas, Venezuela, immersing themselves in a different culture for a few years before returning to the United States. In 1968, Michal then settled in Westlake Village and gave birth to her son, Seth James, on May 30, 1969. This marked the beginning of her enduring love for Westlake Village and all things California.

Determined to further her education amidst raising a family, Michal earned a degree in Foreign Literature In Translation from California State University at Northridge. Years later, after Danielle had grown and Seth was still in high school, Michal moved to Santa Monica. It was there that she met Hong Tan—the start of a loving partnership that spanned decades. Together they embarked on a lifetime of adventures around the world. They loved their time living in Washington D.C. and Florida and made many treasured friends along the way. Yet despite their travels, Michal always felt the pull of Westlake Village and returned twice before settling there permanently in 2010.

Fluent in Spanish and passionate about teaching and learning, Michal shared her knowledge by teaching Spanish to elementary aged children while living in the Washington DC area. Her love for people was manifested in the joy she found in connecting with others of all ages through meaningful conversations filled with honesty and curiosity. The Pacific Ocean was an eternal source of inspiration for Michal—a symbol of power that reflected her deep appreciation for nature and life’s beauty.

Michal cherished her family. In 2024, Michal and Hong celebrated their 40th anniversary—a testament to their enduring bond built on love and friendship. She is survived by her daughter, Danielle Padula, and son-in-law Nicholas Padula; her grandchildren Joseph and Maria; and her granddaughter-in-law Meghan. Michal also leaves behind her sisters Bridget Molzahn (Robert) and Katie Walsh (Stephen Glynn); as well as their children and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents Joan and Bill Walsh; her beloved grandmother Florence Ellefs Staedtler; and her son Seth James—whose passing in 2006 left an inconsolable mark on her heart. Despite these profound losses, Michal’s resilience shone brightly through her love of life that she shared with those around her.

A graveside service will be held on February 4th in Westlake Village, California. Family and friends are invited to continue celebrating Michal’s life with a luncheon following.

Michal Walsh Arnett will be remembered for the warmth she brought into every room and the love she poured into every relationship. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her deeply. May she rest peacefully surrounded by the legacy of a life well-lived.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the California Fire Foundation.

The California Fire Foundation, provides emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they serve.

https://cpf.salsalabs.org/in-honor-of-donation/index.html