Robert “Bob” Arnold, 70, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.

Bob lived a life defined by hard work, kindness, and extraordinary generosity. An engineer by profession, he approached every challenge with integrity, dedication, and a quiet determination to do things the right way. Whether at work or at home, he was known for his unwavering work ethic, patient nature, and willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Above all, Bob treasured his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Gabriele French, and found his greatest joy in supporting those he loved.

A passionate advocate for youth sports, Bob dedicated countless hours as both a coach and administrator with Chesterfield Little League and Speedway Little League. He found immense joy in mentoring young athletes, teaching not only the fundamentals of the game but also the importance of teamwork, perseverance, sportsmanship, and character. His patient guidance, encouraging spirit, and commitment to helping children succeed left a lasting impact on generations of players and their families.

Outside of work and volunteering, Bob had a lifelong appreciation for British sports cars and enjoyed watching sports of all kinds, especially “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,”

the Indianapolis 500. In recent years, he and Gabriele discovered a shared love of cruising and travel, creating cherished memories together while exploring new places and enjoying life’s adventures.

In one final act of generosity, Bob became an organ donor, giving others the opportunity for hope and healing. His family takes comfort in knowing that his legacy of compassion will continue through the lives he touched.

Bob will be remembered for his selfless spirit, steadfast character, and the genuine kindness he extended to everyone he met. His quiet strength, generous heart, and unwavering support of family and friends will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Gabriele French; his children, Bobby Arnold, Nick Arnold (Stacie), and Debby Arnold; his stepchildren, Sarah Crawford, John French, David French, and Justin French; his siblings, Timothy Arnold, Cheryl Petty, Christopher Arnold, Jennifer Jackson, and Steven Arnold; as well as many beloved grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert C. Arnold; his mother, Marjorie Ashcraft; and his former wife, Cheryl Crawford Arnold.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bob’s life during a visitation from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, 2026, followed by a funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m., at Conkle Funeral Home, Speedway Chapel. Placement of Bob's cremains and memorialization will be at Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery, 6805 Dr. M L King Jr. Blvd., Anderson, IN 46013.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Speedway Little League, helping continue Bob’s passion for supporting young athletes and the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community that he cherished.

Please make checks payable to Speedway Little League, include “In Memory of Bob Arnold” in the memo line, and mail contributions to:

Speedway Little League--6039 West 29th Place, Speedway, IN 46224

Bob’s legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the family he loved, and the countless young athletes, friends, and neighbors who were blessed by his patience, generosity, and unwavering example. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.