We Remember

NEWMAN, Arnold

November 15, 1921 — December 21, 2022

Arnold Newman’s earthly journey came to a close when he was called home to be with his Lord and Saviour on December 21, 2022, at the age of 101 years.

Arnold was predeceased by his wife of 53 years, Reta (d.2007).  He is survived by his children Gerald (Donna) Newman and Karen (Norm) Thompson; and grandchildren Jen and Ryan (Raela) Newman.

Arnold was born November 15, 1921, in Jachimovca, Poland.  He immigrated to Canada with his parents and siblings in May 1928.  The family arrived in Leduc, Alberta and moved around for some time, eventually settling on a farm in Telfordville, Alberta in 1935.

Arnold completed grade 8 and left home at the age of 18.  He initially worked where he could, eventually, he “rode the rails” out east to Northern Ontario where he worked in pulpwood and mining camps.

He came back west in 1943 and worked at various jobs.  In 1947, he committed his life to following Jesus, and at the age of 27 he attended Peace River Bible Institute for 4 years, graduating in 1951.  He felt those four years grounded him in God’s Word and shaped him for a life of service to Jesus.

After graduating, he worked construction in Dawson Creek, and eventually moved to Whitehorse, Yukon. On a trip home to Leduc in 1953, he met Reta at a local church service.  They were married in 1954 and continued to live and work in Whitehorse.

In 1958, Arnold went to work for Canada Post, and in 1967 they were transferred to Smithers, BC, where he continued to work for Canada Post until retiring in 1983.

In 1986, Arnold and Reta relocated to Kelowna, BC, where they enjoyed many years in the sunny Okanagan until Reta’s passing in 2007.  In 2009, at the age of 88, Arnold moved into Fernbrae following the loss of his right leg.  The next 13 years were filled will many challenging experiences; but Arnold’s trust that God was taking care of him enabled him to live his life with a heart of contentment, an abiding sense of humour, and an ever-present hope in Jesus.

Arnold loved to read. Much of his reading focused on bible study and involved books and reference materials relating to those studies.  He was very committed to the local church, serving where he could, including leadership, preaching and teaching.  He was also active with the Gideons and served as a member for over 50 years.

He had an inquisitive mind and was always trying to figure things out.  Having lived through the great depression, Arnold held to the motto of “use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without”, and as a result he was both frugal and very handy.  He enjoyed gardening, horseshoes, and going for coffee.

The central focus of Arnold’s life was Jesus and the study of God’s Word.  His life expressed the love and grace that God had extended to him.  He loved to share this message with those that he met.

The following is part of a quote that Arnold wanted read at his service: “We all knew that eventually I would pass on. As far as I’m concerned, my death is not a tragedy, but a triumph. Let this day be a day of CELEBRATION!”.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, January 6, 2023, at 1:00 PM, at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service (see below), a recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shareword Global Canada.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

Service
Friday, January 6, 2023, at 1:00 PM

Location
Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

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Shareword Global Canada (The Gideons) Link: www.sharewordglobal.com

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for NEWMAN, Arnold is scheduled for Friday, January 6, 2023, at 1:00 PM. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

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Condolences

  • Don Hill says:
    December 26, 2022 at 4:58 am

    Sincere condolences to Gerald and Karen and their families. Your dad will always be remembered for his great smile and loving personality! As a lifelong student of the Bible and follower of Jesus we can say “well done, good and faithful servant!” Way back in the mid 60’s, he was my boss at the Whitehorse post office. He taught me good work ethic and he also “schooled me” at horse shoes a number of times! Well respected and caring man! He will be fondly remembered!
    Don & Janet Hill

    Reply

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