Glenmont Welder and Farmer Tom Arnold Remembered by Community

Donald "Tom" Arnold, 74, who worked as a welder, farmed with family, and was a fixture of community events in Glenmont and Millersburg, died December 21 at Ohio's Hospice LifeCare. Services were held December 26 at Alexander Funeral Home in Millersburg, and he was buried at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church Cemetery in Glenmont. He was a graduate of West Holmes High School and remained active in his church and in local social organizations throughout his life.

Arnold spent years as a welder with Flxible and later with RPI of Indiana, trades that tied him to the region's manufacturing economy. He also farmed with family, contributing to the agricultural backbone of Holmes County. He belonged to SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church and formerly belonged to the Millersburg Eagles. He enjoyed tractors, tractor pulls, race cars, demolition derbies and old western movies, pastimes that reflect rural traditions that bring neighbors together across generations.

For residents of Holmes County his death is a reminder of how local lives are woven into workplaces, churches and recreation. Arnold's mix of industrial labor and farming work illustrates the dual economic roles many families carry in this region. Community events such as tractor pulls and local races are not only entertainment, they are informal networks of mutual support where local identity and intergenerational ties are reinforced.

The circumstances of his passing also underscore the importance of hospice services in rural areas. Ohio's Hospice LifeCare provided end of life care, and the family requested memorial contributions to that organization. In a county where distance and limited public resources can strain access to health services, community donations and sustained funding for palliative and hospice care help ensure that families can receive compassionate support close to home.

Arnold is survived by siblings listed in family notices. Funeral arrangements were handled by Alexander Funeral Home in Millersburg. His life and local presence will be remembered by neighbors, coworkers and the many people who shared in county fairs, church gatherings and roadside conversations over tractors and old westerns.