January 12, 1939 – January 24, 2020
It is with profound sadness that the family of Arnold J. Holst announce his passing on Friday January 24, 2020 at Guelph General Hospital at the age of 81. Arnold, who never lost his amazing sense of humour, died peacefully with family by his side after a lengthy battle with severe COPD which he fought with courage and dignity. Arnold will be dearly missed by his three children, Kimberley (Hal Stade), Melanie (Lee Frank), and Douglas (Nellie). He was a cherished and proud grandfather to his much loved grandchildren Janna, Emily and Kieran. He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years Bernice Hillier; sisters, Dorothy, Lynn and Dorelle; brothers, Jimmy and Billy. Arnold was predeceased by his parents, Jens and Grace; brothers, Kenneth, Ron and Leslie. A heartfelt thank you to family, friends and the staff at Guelph General Hospital in 4E for their compassion and kindness shown to him. In keeping with Arnold’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held in spring.
God looked around his garden and found an empty place
He then looked down upon the Earth and saw your tired face
He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest
Gods garden must be beautiful, he always takes the best
He saw the road was getting rough and the hills too hard to climb
He closed your weary eyelids and whispered “Peace be Thine”
It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn’t go alone
For part of us went with you the day God called you home
A tree will be planted in memory of Arnold J. Holst in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest, University of Guelph Arboretum. Dedication service, Sunday, September 20, 2020 at 2:30 pm.