Arnold J. Flaig

BLOCK ISLAND - Arnold 'Arnie' J. Flaig, 76, of Block Island, RI, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, with his loving family by his side. Born in Cranston, RI, on April 21, 1949, Arnie lived a life defined by creativity, independence, and an entrepreneurial spirit he embraced from a young age.

Arnie was a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where he earned a degree in Anthropology and Sociology, studies that reflected his curiosity about people, cultures, and the world around him.

Self-employed for most of his life, Arnie was proud to be known as an entrepreneur. He owned and operated the well-loved home furnishings store Chapel Cottage and later founded Winfield's on Block Island, an iconic restaurant that continues to serve the island community today. His career expanded to include wholesale distribution of handcrafted furniture and pottery imported from Mexico, reflecting both his eye for craftsmanship and his appreciation for artisans. A skilled craftsman himself, Arnie found great joy in carpentry. He helped shape the character of Block Island through his work and later built homes throughout the Stonington, Connecticut area. Arnie also cherished his winters spent in Panama, Mexico, Portugal, and Hawaii, amongst others, where he delighted in exploring different cultures and the natural beauty of untamed landscapes.

Arnie is survived by his beloved daughter, Emily (Flaig) Barlow, and his son-in-law, Scott Barlow. He was the cherished son of Mary (Radoccia) Flaig and the late Joseph Flaig of Providence, RI. He is also survived by his nephew, David Giorgianni, and his partner, Ana Fortin of Beaverton, Oregon. He is also survived by his companion, Karen Williams. He was predeceased by his sister, Elberta Bedoar, of Concord, California.

Arnie will be deeply missed by his family, his loving Block Island community, and by the many friends he made throughout his life. He had a gift for connecting with people wherever he traveled, and he was truly loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

A celebration of Arnie's life will be held in the spring on Block Island. Instead of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the Block Island Conservancy.