passed away peacefully at the West Coast General Hospital in Port Alberni on Saturday, October 24, 2009,
at the age of 92 years.
Predeceased by his wife Marian; sons Glen and Graham, Arnold is survived by daughter Cynthia (Hardy); granddaughters, Heidi (Marcus) and Jennifer (Freddie); great grandchildren, Ruben, Leo, Paris, Oscar, and Scarlett; sisters Agnes Messer and Loretta Basendowski, brother Larry Bonesky as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Born into a musical family on the family farm, Arnold learned a strong work ethic at a very young age but he also learned to love music. Most family occasions involved musical performances in the living room. He stayed on the farm until in 1938 when he volunteered for the Canadian Army and was sent overseas. Mostly, he was responsible for repairing the heavy guns on the tanks. He survived the war and during his stay in England met and married Marian Ratcliffe.
After the war, the two were reunited back in Canada and lived in Medicine Hat raising their growing family until 1957 when they moved to the Alberni Valley.
Arnold worked for many years at the Somass Mill as a Machinist. When he was not working, he enjoyed fishing and getting involved with the Baseball Association. He was involved in the planning of Russell Park and coached for many years.
In 1973 Marian and Arnold moved to Parksville and at 61 they bought a store which they remade into a delicatessen. After “retiring”, he was always busy doing something or traveling with Marian making the most of his day. He became very involved in the Presbyterian Church especially the Men’s club and the choir, and volunteered many hours for the church tending lawns, fixing things and maintaining the church.
He loved being around people and became a CNN junkie in his later years, keeping mentally sharp, and also keeping involved with his family.
He will be missed by all.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, November 8th at 2:00pm, at the Knox United Church, 345 Pym Road, Parksville with Rev Foster officiating. Condolences may be forwarded to the family at www.mem.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Arnold’s memory may be made to the BC Children’s Hospital, 4480 Oak St. Room B321, Vancouver, BC. V6H 3V4.
Chapel of Memories entrusted with arrangements. 250-723-3633