Michael Edward Arnold, 64, passed away on Wednesday, August 23, 2017, at his home in Apollo Beach, FL where he retired in 2012. Mike was born in Harrisburg, PA and lived there for his first 40 years. He was a master plumber and an expert in mechanical and refrigeration systems. His work in PA was as president of Berry Bros. Inc.; his play was mostly at the beaches of Delaware and Maryland, spending time with family and friends. Growing up around sprint car race tracks in central PA he developed a life-long passion for auto racing. He was thrilled to watch all racing and had the privilege of driving race cars at several NASCAR tracks around the country. He was a member of Silver Spring Presbyterian Church where he worked with the youth and served as a Trustee.
While traveling to Hawaii in 1986 Mike fell in love with "island life" and dreamed of living on a tropical island. Hurricane Hugo's devastation on the island of St. Croix, USVI presented Mike with an opportunity to relocate there to help rebuild the island. In 1991 Mike followed his heart and moved his family to the Caribbean, where he lived for 21 years. As supervisor of the A/C Department at the Hovensa Oil Refinery he was well-respected for his knowledge, honesty, determination and great work ethic. He was a member of St. Croix Christian Church, where he served on several committees and participated in Bible studies. Mike always had such a tender heart towards God. His gentle spirit, easy-going manner, sense of humor, and sincerity made him a natural for island life. He absolutely loved the beauty of St. Croix, the warm clear water, and the people that he formed relationships with there.
Mike is survived by Cheryl, his devoted wife of 37 years and by his son Zachary. He will be dearly missed.
Life Celebrations will be held on Saturday, September 23 in Pennsylvania and Saturday, October 14 at his home in Florida. His ashes will be scattered in the Caribbean, near his beloved home, St. Croix.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23