Dr. Michael J. Arnone

Dr. Michael J. Arnone, age 91, of Red Bank, New Jersey, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Monday, July 1, 2024.
Michael was born and raised in Red Bank, NJ, where he met the love of his life, Barbara, while attending Red Bank Catholic High School in 1950. He attended St. Francis College, Loretto, PA., and Seton Hall University, South Orange, NJ, and graduated from Temple University School of Dentistry, Philadelphia, PA. in 1958. Michael then served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1961, attaining the rank of Captain. In 1956, Michael and Barbara, high school sweethearts, married and settled in Red Bank. In 1961, he opened his dental practice and was dedicated to his patients for over 60 years.
Mike and Barbara were married for 67 years and had 5 children: John (Jean), Suzanne, Mark, Paul (Dawn), and Michael (Dawn Marie). He will be lovingly remembered and adored by his 11 grandchildren and great-grandson. Michael had a love for public service and began his extensive political career by becoming the Chairman of the Red Bank Borough Zoning Board of Adjustments in 1965. In 1969, he was elected as a member of the Red Bank Borough Council, where he held the position until 1973. He also served as Fire Commissioner and then Police Commissioner. In 1978, Michael was elected mayor of Red Bank where he initiated several major projects that benefited the residents of Red Bank. He served 3 terms, until 1990.
In 1989, Michael was elected to the New Jersey State Assembly and was re-elected six times to represent the 12th District until 2004. While in the Assembly, Mike served on the Housing and Local Government Committees, the Community Development and Urban Affairs Committee, and the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, among others. His key initiatives included the protection of law-abiding citizens with legislation such as "Megan's Law." While serving in the legislature, Michael was acknowledged for his dedication to NJ, his community, and the Republican Party. He received awards for being the Outstanding Legislator of the Year from the New Jersey Conference of Mayors and the Republican of the Year from the Red Bank Republican Club, among numerous other awards, while in public service.
Michael was a beloved father and grandfather who loved to cook and entertain friends and family. No one left his home without a full stomach. Holidays were always a big celebration for Mike and Barb, with a lot of Italian traditions, great food, and lots of laughs. Michael was an avid baseball fan, coaching little league for his four sons, and cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals. In retirement, his ultimate love was serving as a NJ Racing Commissioner.
Friends and family will miss his support, love, and humor. He always had a new joke for family and friends.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 9th from 2-4 & 7-9 pm at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, July 10th at 11:30 am at St. James Church, 94 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Middletown, NJ.