Kenneth Tad Arnold

Kenneth T. Arnold, age 93, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2026.

Born on December 19, 1932, on his family’s farm in Otway, Ohio, Ken was the son of the late Kepler and Clara Arnold. He dedicated 26 proud years of service to the United States Air Force, retiring at the distinguished rank of Master Sergeant. His military career took him across the globe to Canada, Pakistan, the Philippines, New Zealand, and numerous U.S. states.

Beyond his military service, Ken was a consummate woodworker and an accomplished artisan of marquetry. His intricate, beautiful wood-inlay pieces were widely celebrated and displayed in galleries and shows throughout the Midwest, as well as in Florida, South Carolina, Georgia, New Mexico, and Texas. A passionate gardener and talented handyman, Ken was truly happiest when he was helping friends and family with their projects or sharing a meal and a laugh around the table.

Ken was also an avid hunter and fisherman. Known for his immense patience, he lovingly mentored many nephews, grandchildren, and grandnephews in the arts of the outdoors. To his neighbors, he was a warm and familiar face who knew almost everyone on the block. In his later years, neighbors like Mike and Kathi Robinson became close, cherished friends who provided invaluable support as his health declined.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Kepler and Clara Arnold; and his brother, James Arnold. He was also reunited in death with the two great loves of his life: his cherished wife, Virginia R. Arnold, and his beloved partner, Dixie Soladine, whom he had hoped to marry before her passing.

He is survived by his siblings, Ray Arnold and Kay Hopkins; his daughters, Donna M. Arnold (fiancé Jeff Bennett) and Amanda MacClements (Doug); and his beloved grandchildren, Adi, Janele, and Gage MacClements, along with a large, loving extended family of nephews and nieces.

Ken’s profound kindness, gentle spirit, immense generosity, and remarkable artistry leave an enduring legacy. He will be deeply missed by the many lives he touched, as will the steady supply of homemade cinnamon candy he so loved to share. As a final parting sign-off, those who knew him can still hear his familiar, warmth-filled reminder to always "give my regards to" the ones you love.

To celebrate Ken's life, a memorial gathering of family friends will be held from 3:00pm to 4:30pm on Saturday, November 14th, 2026 at Newcomer Funeral Home, NE Chapel, 3047 East Dublin-Granville Road, Columbus, Ohio (614-818-1188).

Military honors will immediately follow at 4:30pm to be rendered by the United States Air Force and members of the American Legion Post #532. 

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