Paul S. Arnold's Obituary
Paul S. Arnold, age 65, of Manawa, WI, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 30, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He faced his illness with the same resilience and quiet strength that he carried through life, never losing his humor or love for the simple joys that made each day special.
Born on December 29, 1959, in the village of Hinsdale, IL, Paul was the son of David and Joan (Prahl) Arnold. On September 6, 1996, he married the love of his life, Patricia “Patti” Smith, in Waupaca, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a shared appreciation for life’s little pleasures.
Paul worked for many years at the Waupaca Foundry, where he was known for his strong work ethic and easygoing nature. Away from work, he found happiness in the things that brought him comfort: watching Wisconsin’s beloved sports teams—the Brewers, Packers, Bucks, and Badgers—cheering them on through every victory and heartbreak. He also enjoyed the beauty of nature, bird watching from his favorite spot at home, and simply watching the world go by—especially when a fancy car caught his eye. A fan of spooky thrillers, he never passed up the chance to watch a scary movie, especially if it meant sharing the fun with family and friends.
But above all, Paul’s greatest joy came from time spent with his loved ones. Whether it was a family gathering, a simple conversation over a beer, or a game day celebration, he cherished every moment. His kind heart, quick wit, and unwavering loyalty will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Paul is survived by his devoted wife, Patti Arnold of Manawa; his children, Josh (Lindsay) Arnold of Florida, Todd (Erin) Arnold of Appleton, Zack (Tiffany) Arnold of Merrill, and Kayla (Joe) Arnold of New London; his step-children, Jamie Gurholt of New London and Helana Karschney of Bear Creek; former step-son-in-law Jason Gurholt of Waupaca; his grandchildren, David Mack, Aleka Arnold, Trinity Schmidt, and Drew Wagner; and his step-grandchildren, Bailey Gurholt, Breanna Gurholt, Brett Gurholt, Blake Gurholt, Lylianna Akright, Josh Wendt, Meyna Karschney, Brooklyn Ritchie, and Scarlett Karschney-Goza. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Dior and Briella.
Paul will be fondly remembered by his sisters, Lorie (Terry) Jirschele of Hortonville and Diane “Dee Dee” (Gary) Merrill of New London; nephews, Seth (Hillary) Merrill of Neenah and Kirk Merrill of New London; and his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Anthony “Tony” Smith of Waupaca, Pamela Smith-Toftum of Waupaca, Rodney Smith of North Carolina, Brian (Terri) Smith of Waupaca, Perry “Pee Wee” (Heather) Smith of Waupaca, Terry “Annie” Nicewander of Waupaca, Margaret (Dan) Bertram of Waupaca, and Kathryn Smith of Waupaca; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Joan Arnold; his parents-in-law, Ronald and Helen Smith; his step-son, Jessie Kimball; and his brothers-in-law, Michael “Hank” Smith, Theodore “Ted” Smith, and Mark Toftum.
A Celebration of Paul’s Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM at Holly Funeral Home in Waupaca, WI. Following the celebration at the funeral home, the family invites everyone to continue sharing memories and laughter at Schueller’s Great Exspechtations in Waupaca. To honor Paul’s love for Wisconsin sports, guests are encouraged to come as you are, and even embrace the spirit by wearing your favorite Wisconsin sports attire. Paul will be laid to rest at Baldwins Mill Cemetery in the Town of Royalton at a later date. The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.
What’s your fondest memory of Paul?
What’s a lesson you learned from Paul?
Share a story where Paul's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Paul you’ll never forget.
How did Paul make you smile?