Charles Arnold

Charles "Chuck" Arnold

June 16, 1931 - August 4, 2025

Charles "Chuck " Arnold lived life with a twinkle in his eye, a heart for service, and a knack for telling the perfect joke at just the right moment. Born in Great Falls, Montana, Chuck developed a love for wide-open spaces and a spirit of adventure that stayed with him throughout his 94 years.

After graduating from the University of Oregon and seminary training in California, Chuck moved the family to McIntosh, South Dakota for his first ever Presbyterian parish assignment, after that it was off to Long Island, New York for his second assignment. Chuck then joined the United States Air Force as a Captain and chaplain. He traveled without the family for one tour during the Vietnam war where he helped start and run an orphanage in Thailand. His work transcended religious boundaries - he counseled and comforted people from all walks of life with empathy, respect, and kindness.

Chuck's military career took him and his family across the globe-from the coasts of Massachusetts and California to the shores of Okinawa, the heartland of Indiana, the castles of Germany, and the icy beauty of Iceland. Wherever they went, Chuck and his wife Barbara created a warm and loving home.

Together, Chuck and Barbara shared 75 years of marriage and raised seven children: Janice, Jon, Jerol, Jennifer, Paul, Karis, and Jason. Their family grew to include 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Eventually, Chuck and Barbara settled in Lompoc, where they lovingly restored a creaky old Victorian home then filled it with laughter, hospitality, and plenty of Chuck's puns.

After retiring from the Air Force, Chuck continued to serve his community through his compassionate work at Valley of the Flowers Church. He was a champion of human rights and a true humanitarian who believed deeply in fairness, dignity, and standing up for others.

Chuck's kindness, quick wit, adventurous spirit, and steadfast commitment to helping others touched countless lives. He is survived by his beloved wife Barbara, their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many friends who will forever remember his humor, big heart, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place.

A celebration of Chuck's life will be held at 11 am on October 18 at the Valley of the Flowers Church in Lompoc. All are welcome to share stories, laughs, and perhaps even a joke in his honor. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Valley of the Flowers Church in recognition of his lifelong commitment to service and humanity.