Wayne Lee Arnold

Wayne Lee Arnold, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, age 86, of Cardington, Ohio, passed away on July 14, 2026, at Riverside Methodist Hospital. He was born on July 10, 1940, in South Woodbury, Ohio, to Irvin L. Arnold and Anna R. (Wheeler) Baddeley.

Wayne worked as a welder and machinist at McClain Industries, Galion, Ohio until retirement. He was a member of Cardington Community Methodist Church, Spangler Sisters and Country Travelers Band, Morrow County Sherriff's Office Mounted Deputy Unit, and 4H Youth Advisor. Wayne loved sports, especially football, and was an avid fan of Ohio State University athletics and the Cincinnati Reds. He especially enjoyed attending and cheering on his grandchildren at various sporting events. He loved the outdoors, where he enjoyed riding horses and fishing, boating, golfing, and tennis. In later years, he got the opportunity to travel, both nationally and internationally, and loved it. He found his peace when cruising across the oceans where he enjoyed the natural beauty of water, sky, and sea-life. Above all, Wayne treasured his family. He was especially proud of the life he and his beloved wife, Gertie, built together over more than 64 years of marriage. He cherished the time they shared and the memories they created with their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and loved ones. He always had family at the center of his life.

On July 24, 1961, Wayne married the love of his life, Gertrude (Spangler) in Galion, Ohio. In addition to his wife, Wayne is survived by their daughters Cheryl (Dan) Sparks of Powell, Diane (Bill) Addington of Marengo, and daughter-in-law Wendy Arnold of Marengo; five grandchildren: Rachell Williamson, Matthew (Pauline) Williamson, David (Brittany) Arnold, Ryan (Dawn) Sparks and Nathan (Kendall) Sparks; fifteen great-grandchildren and his sister Charlotte (Bill) Lee.

In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by his son James Arnold, grandson Jason Arnold, sister Georgia Campbell and brother Donald Baddeley.

Friends may call on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at Gompf Funeral Home, 440Center Street, Cardington, Ohio. The funeral service will be held Monday, July 20, 2026, 11:00 AM at Cardington Community Methodist Church with Pastor John Carpenter officiating. Following the service, the burial will take place in Cardington at the Glendale Union Cemetery.

Wayne and Gertie have dedicated their lives to the work of the church and the following of the Lord. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider the Cardington Community Methodist Church, 300 South Marion Street, Cardington, Ohio 43315. Those wishing to live online may do so through this link https://tithe.ly/give?c=1383467

Gompf Funeral Service of Cardington is honored to have been chosen to assist the Arnold family with Wayne's final wishes. Condolences may be expressed to his family at www.gompffh.com.