James E. Arnold, age 88 of Joliet, IL passed away peacefully into eternal life on January 9, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 29, 1934 to his parents John and Anna Arnold in Keokuk, IA. He was a graduate of Joliet Catholic High School in 1952. On November 9, 1963 James was united in marriage to Donna M. (Vogrin) Arnold at St. John's Catholic Church and they spent 59 happy years together.

For 40 years, he was a proud employee of the United States Postal Service where he formed meaningful relationships with many of the people on his route. Jim was a 60-year member in The Illinois State Association of Letter Carriers, a longtime member of The Knights of Columbus, and enjoyed being a part of The Senior Citizen Association. He practiced his extremely strong faith at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Joliet. Jim was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend who will be deeply missed.

The only activity Jim loved more than watching Notre Dame football was watching his grandchildren participate in their countless sporting events and activities. You could always find him in the front row of the bleachers an hour before the game even started. Although Jim was loyal, hardworking, and very compassionate, he was best known for his great sense of humor. There wasn't a person in the world he couldn't make laugh. He would tell his grandchildren silly stories and often joke with them that his best subjects in school were recess and lunch.
To know Jim was to love him. He was a down to earth, easy-going, witty man who loved everyone he encountered. Most of all, he fiercely loved his family. Jim showed, with both his words and actions, just how much he truly valued his family.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Donna; children Denise (Glenn) Schmeltz, Deborah (Jeff) Hyde and James (Renee) Arnold; grandchildren, Dean (Allie Morgan) Schmeltz, Dinah Schmeltz, Bradley Hyde, and Ryan, Nicole, and Megan Arnold; brother-in-law, Donald Vogrin; many other dear family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Anna (McNally) Arnold; siblings John "Bill" William (late Irene Murphy) Arnold and Sr. Anne Arnold OSF; grandson Brian Hyde; brother-in-law, William (late Janice) Vogrin.

Memorial Visitation will be Friday, January 20, 2023 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at O'NEIL FUNERAL HOME 1105 E. 9th St., Lockport, IL. Family and friends are welcome to join on Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 10:00am at St. Patrick's Church (710 W. Marion St., Joliet) for Mass of Christian Burial. For info: www.oneilfuneralhome.com or 815-838-5010