1927 – 2013

BANGOR — Donald H. Arnold Sr., 86, of Madawaska, died Monday, Dec. 9, at the Maine Veterans’ Home in Bangor, following a period of ill health.

He was born in Auburn on Oct. 8, 1927, the son of Lyman and Ethel (Porter) Arnold, and was a graduate of Edward Little High School. Following graduation, Donald joined the U.S. Air Force, serving three years during World War II; he attained the rank of staff sergeant, working as a radio operator. After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, he attended the University of Maine in Orono, graduating with a bachelor’s degree and later with a master’s degree in education.

Donald was married to Frances (Maxwell) Arnold; she predeceased him on March 25, 2003, following 51 years of marriage.

Mr. Arnold or “Coach,” as he was affectionately called, taught health and physical education at Madawaska High School for 31 years. During his time there, he was the varsity basketball coach and the athletic director.

After his retirement from the high school, he was the sports editor at the St. John Valley Times for 20 years. He also served the town of Madawaska as its recreation director. He was a member of the Madawaska Rotary Club, and avid golfer and sportsman. He was a special New York Yankees fan.

He is survived by two sons, Donald Arnold Jr. of Nashua, N.H., and Richard Arnold and his fiancée, Margo Albert, of Milford; one daughter, Kim Norris, of Dixmont; two sisters, Joyce Coyne of Lisbon and Gerry Woodhead of California; six grandchildren, Kristi Dugal and her partner, Darren Frost, Kelly Drennan and her husband, John, Mathew Arnold, Michael Arnold, Christopher Becker and Alicia Norris; and four great-grandchildren, Brianna, Trevor, Emily and Abby. He will also be remembered by daughters-in-law, Sharon Arnold and Lucille Arnold.

In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his sister, Ruth Collins; his brother, “Putt” Arnold; his grandson, Dana Arnold; and his son-in-law, Scott Norris.

To sign an online guest book and leave written tributes, please visit www.PhilipBrownFuneralHome.com.