Richard Elry Arnold's Obituary
Richard Elry Arnold, 76, passed in peace Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at his home in Dallas, Texas. Rick was born April 20, 1943 in Quanah, Texas to Ava and Joseph Arnold, and was depended on for his strong and independent mind. Rick’s youth was spent on the farm with 6 siblings, where the care of his family through farming, hunting, and machine maintenance laid the foundation for his life-long passions of family, mentoring, and machinery.After graduating from Lakeview High School in 1961, Rick moved to Arlington to study math and science at Arlington College when it was part of the A&M system.Rick developed a keen and innovative talent for troubleshooting and problem-solving in all areas of life, especially in the hydraulics and machinery industries. The first 15 years of his career were at Womack Machine Supply Company, leading as Vice President with expertise in the design of robots to do large jobs with precision.He later formed Arnold Specialty Equipment Company, and worked as an active consultant throughout his life due to his knowledge of the machine industry. He was regularly called upon to solve problems that others could not resolve. With a twinkle in his eye, he would smile and say, “I can fix that.” He was entirely motivated by the search for solutions, simplifying processes, and helping others, never seeking recognition or glory.He was an avid outdoorsman, finding great joy in hunting, fishing, and camping. With a humble servant’s heart, he had a passion for mentoring others. He especially enjoyed his time with Boy Scouts in Troop 444, where he dedicated nearly two decades to teaching outdoors and cooking skills to young men. All of his grandsons are in Boy Scouts today, with one son an Eagle Scout.Rick’s greatest source of joy and fulfillment, however, resided in the care of his family and loved ones. In 1988 he married his loving wife and thought partner, Janet Osborne. They shared 31 years in the exploration and development of thoughts and ideas, enjoyed travel and the outdoors, and maintained a focus on the support and development of their combined family. All seven children were raised in the Baptist Church, with a strong foundation in the knowledge of the Bible and trust in the word of God. Rick never stopped teaching his children and grandchildren about the precious gift of time, and the importance of the ability to think. His thoughts, ideas, and life lessons will continue to impact the lives of many for generations to come.Rick will lovingly be remembered by his wife, Janet and his children Rod (Chevy), Jeff, Robin (Jeff), Jamie (Bart), John (Sunni), Jim (Shelley), and Anne (Scott). Rick will also be fondly remembered by his twelve grandchildren, Reagan, Spencer, Colton, Rachel, Erick, Jack, Rowe, West, Zac, Madison, Porter, and Lydia, as well as by his brothers Bob (Barbara) and Hoyt (Jackie) and sister Marie. Rick was preceded in death by his brothers Joe and Ed, his sister Doris Parker, and his beloved Uncle Walt.Services in remembrance of Rick will be held Sunday, June 30, 2019 at 2:30pm in the Memorial Chapel at Restland Funeral Home, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75243. A reception will follow in the Restland Event Center located across the street from the Funeral Home.In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Circle Ten Boy Scout Foundation, 8605 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75235.
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