James J. Arnold

James J. Arnold, 73, of Contoocook, NH passed away Wednesday, April 18, 2018 following a period of declining health.

Jim was born in Winchester, MA on July 29, 1944 to Melvin and Phyllis (Cipello) Arnold. Jim was a carpenter by trade, but his truest love was for fishing and hunting. Jim was happy to fish anywhere he could throw a line in the water, and always traveled with a fishing rod and tackle box in every vehicle he owned "just in case." He had an unparalleled enthusiasm for the outdoors and Native American culture. Described as the best man you could ever know, Jim never met a stranger anywhere he went. Small children and animals loved him immediately and he always had a warm smile for anyone he encountered. Jim loved passionately, particularly his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Brother James was an active member and Past Master of St. Mark's Masonic Lodge in Derry, NH.

Jim is survived by his wife, Donna S. Varrell; his sons, Joey and Jimbo Arnold; grandson, Jeff and granddaughter, Tabatha; Ashley Picard, the granddaughter of his heart, and her husband, Jeremy; great-grandchildren Chase, Wyatt, McKenna, Brylee, and Mason; and several other extended family members.
Friends and family are invited to gather in celebration of Jim's life Saturday, April 28th 8:30-9:30am at Phaneuf Funeral Home, 172 King Street in Boscawen. Service will begin at 9:30 in the funeral home chapel. Jim will be laid to rest alongside his parents at Wildwood Cemetery in Wilmington, MA. In the spirit of Jim's love of nature, the family requests donations in lieu of flowers be made to the White Mountain National Forest Plant-A-Tree program to have a tree planted in his memory. Please visit www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5430105.pdf for specific donation instructions. Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium is assisting the family with arrangements. To view an online memorial or leave a message of condolence please go to www.phaneuf.net.