AUGUSTA – Roland D. Arno, 78, of Old Winthrop Road, and formerly of Sidney and Aroostook County, died Thursday, Sept. 12, 2013, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, Augusta Campus, following a battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis. He was born May 19, 1935, in Parkman, the son of the late Clarence and Ruth (Dunn) Arno.
Roland was predeceased by his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 53 years, Sonya (Cookson) Arno. He was also predeceased by all of his siblings, three brothers and two sisters; brother-in-law, James Pearson; and sister-in-law, Althea Cookson.
He is survived by a son, Clarence R. Arno and his wife, Jean, of Garland; two daughters, Rolanda J. Nadeau and her husband, Norman, of Augusta and Maureen A. Veilleux and her husband, Normand, of Greenville; sister-in-law, Charlotte Witham and her husband, Robert, of Hermon; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews. Roland found great comfort and happiness with his very special friend, Mary Sleeper of York.
Roland was employed in a variety of fields. He retired from the U.S. Air Force as a MSgt in 1974, was the Service and Parts Manager for Dexter Motor Sales until he went into the Ministry full time in 1979. He graduated from New York Theological Seminary in August of 1983. He ministered in Sidney, Vinalhaven, Hinckley, Mount Vernon, and Woodland. Roland was nominated for a Jefferson Award for outstanding commitment to his community. After retiring from the full time ministry he continued to minister at other locations in the absence of the home congregation’s pastor as the Lord willed.
He was very active with the children of the community serving in various capacities through Boy Scouts, Baptist Park and China Lake Conference Center. One of Roland’s happiest memories was of working with his son Clarence operating R & C Contractors. Again he retired, and worked as a Wal-Mart Greater and Cashier in Aroostook County and Augusta. He retired once again, and started his own woodworking business. He continued with his wood working until his health forced him to retire permanently at the age of 78.
Roland touched the lives of many people. He devoted his life to his family, friends and any who needed his help. He lived a full and joyous life that many never attain. He lived his life by a motto that he always shared with others “You can do anything in life that you want to, if you put your heart and mind to it.” He set a wonderful example for all those around him. Up to his last breath he was positive and supportive of those around him. Although his passing will leave an empty spot in the hearts of those whose lives he touched, memories of his life will provide joy and encouragement to those left behind.
Visiting hours are 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, at the Second Baptist Church of Sidney, West River Road, Sidney, where at Roland requested a Celebration of Life to be held 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 23. Burial and committal prayers will follow in the new Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Mount Vernon Road, Augusta. The family asks that donations be made to: Maine Veterans Home Activity Fund, 310 Cony Road, Augusta, ME, 04330. Arrangements are under the care of Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. Condolences to the family may be expressed via the funeral home website at www.plummerfh.com.
Roland D. Arno
