Clifford Joel Arnold

April 11, 1939 – July 31, 2026

With profound love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Clifford Joel Arnold, who peacefully graduated to Heaven on July 31, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 87.

Cliff was born on April 11, 1939, in Long Island, New York, to Rudolph and Dagmar Arnold. He attended Glen Cove High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force. His military service instilled in him the values of dedication, integrity, and humility that remained evident throughout his life.

After returning home from the Air Force, Cliff's life changed forever when he met the love of his life, Carol Wolke, at a neighborhood gas station. What began as a chance encounter blossomed into a beautiful love story that spanned 62 years of marriage. Together they built a home filled with faith, laughter, unconditional love, and treasured memories.

Known affectionately by many as "The Gatorman," Cliff never met a stranger. His warm smile, gentle spirit, and generous heart drew people to him wherever he went. He had a gift for making others feel welcome, and his kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Cliff had a lifelong passion for automobiles and aviation. He loved classic cars, collecting Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars, building intricate model cars, and anything related to airplanes. His career in the aviation industry, both in Long Island, New York, and later in Phoenix, Arizona, allowed him to combine his work with one of his greatest passions.

To those who knew him best, Cliff's greatest joy wasn't found in hobbies or possessions—it was found in his family and his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. He lived his faith quietly but boldly, serving as an example of love, compassion, honesty, and grace. His life reflected the values he believed in, and he faithfully pointed others toward hope through the way he lived each day.

If you knew Cliff, you also knew his sweet tooth. He never turned down a slice of pie—especially if it came with a generous helping of whipped cream.

Cliff was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Rudolph and Dagmar Arnold, and his siblings Dagmar ("Honey"), Rudy, Kenny, and Carolyn.

He leaves behind the love of his life, Carol Arnold, his devoted wife of 62 years; his loving children, Karen (Ken) Medeiros, Christopher (Jennifer) Arnold, and Tara (Dan) Cavanaugh.

He was a proud and cherished grandfather to Alexandra (Kevin), Samuel (Brittanie), Victoria (Nick), Benjamin, Tonnie (Tyler), Chelsea (Chris), Daniel (Heather), Gunner, Blade, Cash, Candy, and Stryker.

He was also blessed with 14 great-grandchildren: Marshall, Katherine, Greggory, Hayden, Hendrix, Nixon, Morrison, Malia, Molly, Madeline, Lainey, Denim, Kasen and Rowan, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

Cliff is also lovingly remembered by family members, Thomas Taylor, Tracy Arnold along with many extended family members, lifelong friends, neighbors, and all whose lives were enriched by his kindness and friendship.

Although our hearts ache with his absence, we rejoice in knowing that Cliff is now in the presence of his Savior. His legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply, the faith he modeled so faithfully, and the countless lives he touched through his compassion, humor, and steadfast love.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7

Cliff's family finds comfort in knowing this is not goodbye, but simply "until we meet again." His memory will forever remain in our hearts, and his love will continue to guide us for generations to come.

Donations: Any Veterans Organization

A graveside service with Air Force honors will take place on Thursday, October 6, 2026, at 10:00 am at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.