Fred C Arnold's Obituary
Fred C. Arnold Sr. was born in Detroit, Michigan on February 16, 1925. In the 1960’s, he moved to Pinellas County where he lived for over 50 years, finally settling in Boca Raton at Sinai Residences with his wife, Phyllis. He passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at age 95 after living a long and very happy life filled with adventure, love, public service and success. He served in World War II as a gunner in the Army, bravely flying in an unbelievable 65 combat missions over Burma in a B-25 bomber. He was a true American hero and the rest of his life he was a proud patriot and a supporter of veteran charities. Fred was a respected developer and contractor, building subdivisions and custom homes all around Pinellas County and he served as the President of the Pinellas County Contractors Association, as well as serving for years on his homeowners association. He was a Shriner and supported children’s hospitals as his passion, he travelled the world, he exercised three times a week before it was fashionable, and he dressed meticulously. He loved playing golf, playing many times a week for decades. Fred was incredibly honorable and respected and benevolent. He taught us about ethics, morals, responsibility, keeping your word, having manners, to never let your gas tank be half empty and never carry debt. He was a true gentleman with the kindest of hearts who was loved by his family and everyone who met him.
He was married to his childhood sweetheart Betty Border until she lost her battle with cancer at a young age. Together they had three children Shirley, June and Fred Jr.. Then in a true story book tale, Fred met and was married to Phyllis for 45 wonderful years, becoming a true bonus father to Phyllis’ three daughters, Debbie, Lisa and Cindy. It was always said that Phyllis’ entire family “were so glad they married Fred." He walked into Phyllis’ life wearing an ascot, a handsome, tall and confident man, driving a red Cadillac, with a twinkle in his kind blue eyes. He was the best husband, father and man most had the pleasure of meeting. He loved Sundays with the family relaxing around the pool where he made his famous roast beef sandwiches, cooked on a slow rotisserie. His 95 years were filled with happiness and joy, as seen in his smile.
Survived by his loving wife, Phyllis Arnold, daughters Shirley Trautwein and June McNeil, son Fred C. Arnold Jr.and wife Tricia, bonus daughters Debbie Harvey and husband Chad, Lisa Kasten and husband David, and Cindy Goldsmith. Fred is preceded in death by grandson Jeffrey “Scott” McNeil. He is also survived by ten grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
At this time, the family will mourn in private and services will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Fred’s memory to PayPal.me/SREmployeegiftfund
(as thanks to the heroes and staff at Sinai Residences where Fred resided) or to Shriners Hospital for Children at donate.lovetotherescue.org
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