Donald E. “Don” Arnold of Ord passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025, at CHI St. Francis Medical Center in Grand Island at the age of 79.
Donald Eugene was born on June 12, 1946, to Floyd and Viola (Cochran) Arnold at Ord, Nebraska. He grew up on the family farm in Valley County, Nebraska, alongside his brothers Roger and Harold and his sisters Shirley, Charlene, and Jean. Growing up on the farm, Don developed a strong work ethic and a love for the simple pleasures of life—farming, riding bikes, and spending time with his family.
Don attended school in Ord and proudly graduated from Ord High School in 1965. Not long after, Don met the love of his life, Patricia Mroczek, at a local dance. The two quickly fell in love and were united in marriage on October 20, 1966, at Loup City, Nebraska. Together they built a loving home and raised three children, Brian, Christine, and Kimberly.
Don began working for the Ord COOP Gas Station in 1967 and later for Central Cooperative Non-Stock Transport Company where he remained a dedicated employee until a life-changing accident in 1991. Despite the challenges he faced after losing his right leg, Don’s determination and spirit never wavered. He officially retired in 1994, after working part-time at John Deere and the Ord Golf Course. Following retirement, Don found new joy in his days on the golf course, spending countless hours with his golfing buddies and enjoying the game he loved.
He was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. Don served his community with pride and commitment as a member of the Ord Volunteer Fire Department for over 50 years. His willingness to help others and his steady reliability earned him the respect and friendship of many.
Before his accident, Don and Patricia shared many happy times square dancing and fishing together—a favorite pastime that reflected his joyful spirit and love of life. Don also enjoyed hunting, wood working, playing poker, gardening and participating in Amputee Golf Tournaments.
Family was at the heart of Don’s life. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Patricia of Burwell; a son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Lydia Arnold of Holliday, Texas; two daughters and sons-in-law, Christine and Wayne Hruza of Ord and Kimberly and Billy Pesek of Lincoln. He was a proud grandfather to Trisha, Travis, Tracy, Bridget, Sean, and Brett, and a loving great-grandfather to Trennan, Braxton, Quade, Brigham, Brecken, and a new great-grandchild expected in 2026. Also surviving are two brothers and sisters-in-laws, Roger and Pam Arnold of Ord and Harold and Sandy Arnold of Grand Island; a sister, Jean Brill of Lincoln and two brothers-in-law, Ken Horner of Fort Collins, Colorado and Alvin Nelson of Comstock.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Shirley Nelson and Charlene Horner and a brother-in-law, Stan Brill.
Don will be remembered for his strength, kindness, sense of humor, and deep love for his family and community. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so freely.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Ord, Nebraska. Father Paul Colling will be the Mass Celebrant. The family will greet friends at the church on Saturday beginning at 9:00 a.m. The Rosary will be recited at 10:00 a.m. Inurnment will be in the Ord City Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Ord Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department or Dane Creek Golf Course. Ord Memorial Chapel is assisting with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.ordmemorialchapel.com
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