Robert Ritchie Arnold

Memorial services will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, November 20, 2008 at Northwood United Methodist Church, 4530 Moss Street, Lafayette, for Robert 'Cal' Arnold, 60, who passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2008. Reverend Wayne Howington, Pastor of Northwood United Methodist Church, will conduct the services. Robert 'Cal' Arnold was born on October 21, 1948 in Wichita Falls, Texas, the son of the late Conrad Lee Arnold and the former Margaret Biggs. Cal graduated from Broadmoor High School, Baton Rouge, LA in 1966. While attending LSU majoring in music, the life of a professional musician called enabling Cal to pursue his dream. He was the consummate professional musician for over 40 years as a performing musician and recording artist, playing with many great talents and over 75 bands. Cal was a member of Pro Musicians Local 47 AFM-Hollywood, California, American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers as well as the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, Louisiana Music Hall of Fame, the Grammy Recording Academy, and is a Colonel of the State of Louisiana, as appointed by the Governor. Cal met Nancy Carlson, the love of his life, in 1971 and they married in 1972. They enjoyed a full beautiful life together for 36 years. Cal was preceded in death by his father, Conrad. He is survived by his cherished wife, Nancy; his daughter, Alicia Michelle Arnold; his mother, 'Cookie'; his brothers, Bud Arnold and his wife, Vicki of Azle, TX and Doug Arnold of Buchanan Dam, TX; his two god-daughters, Tori Curry and Ce Ce Griffin; and a host of nieces and nephews. Being the Southern Man he was, Cal's cremated remains will be cast into the Mississippi River at his request, in a private ceremony at a later date. Cal will be remembered by his family and many long time friends for his gentle kindness, unconditional love, generosity, his smile, hugs, amazing stories and music. Through his life, Cal touched so many, many hearts. There is no way to express how much he will be so dearly missed. A reception will follow the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent in Cal's name to Lafayette Animal Aid, P.O. Box 298, Carencro, LA 70520, (337) 896-1553, www.lafayetteanimalaid.org. Personal condolences may be sent to the Arnold family at www.delhommefuneralhome.com. Delhomme Funeral Home, 1011 Bertrand Drive, Lafayette is in charge of funeral arrangements.

Robert Ritchie Arnold

October 21, 1948 - November 13, 2008