Bob Arnold

Robert Wayne Arnold, age 64, of Lamar, passed away Saturday evening, May 24, 2014 at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin.      Bob was born January 14, 1950, at Lamar, to Clarence, Jr. “Yippie” and Grace (Martin) Arnold.  After graduating from Lamar High School in 1968, he earned a BS in business from SMS in Springfield.  Bob was the Human Resource Specialist at Thorco Industries for 33 years.      On August 28, 1971, at Lamar, Bob married Donna Westbay and she survives.  Also surviving are two daughters, Jennifer Joy “J.J.” (Steven) Shaw, Lamar, and Julie Kay (Justin) Maskus, Joplin; a son, Jonathan Robert (Elizabeth) Arnold, Puyallup, Washington; three grandsons, Noah, Blaine, and Trey Shaw, Lamar; and a brother, Steve (Deanna) Arnold, Waco, Missouri.  Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Yippie & Gracie, and a nephew, Gregory Scott Arnold.      A faithful member and tireless worker at Lamar United Methodist Church, Bob served on trustee and worship committees, was active in Methodist Men and Genesis Sunday school class, was a volunteer bus driver, and was the sound technician for every service or special event.  He took pride in his yard and was an avid gardener.  Bob enjoyed photography, music and computer games, and was a dedicated Royals and Chiefs fan.  His greatest pleasure came from time spent with family and the fellowship of many good friends.  Bob will be remembered with a smile for his quick wit and sense of humor.      Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 29th at Lamar United Methodist Church with burial in Memory Gardens Cemetery.      In lieu of a formal visitation, the family will welcome friends at the Arnold home.      Memorial contributions are suggested to Lamar United Methodist Church to be used for sound equipment.