Arnold Frank Detmer was born April 1, 1938, in Rising Sun, Indiana. He graduated high school there, then from Purdue University.

Arnold taught high school math and shop classes in his hometown for one term before joining the Air Force. As a KC-135 pilot. Arnold lived in bases around the United States and toured around the world. His love of travel lasted a lifetime.

Arnold married Mary Aubert in 1963. They lived in Michigan, New York, and Illinois before settling in Southern California. They put down deep roots in Ojai, where they lived for 42 years. Along the way, Arnold began his 33-year career as an American Airlines pilot and their three sons were born, David, Daniel and Scott. Arnold grew oranges, avocados and pixie tangerines at his home orchard while being an active member of the Ojai Presbyterian Church. He retired after 33 years at American. Arnold and Mary traveled around the world, played countless cribbage games and enjoyed their seven grandchildren. Arnold also enjoyed salmon and halibut fishing and was active in several retired men’s groups. After 51 years of marriage, Mary died in 2014.

Arnold soon found his new love, Linda Dikit, and they married in 2015. Arnold and Linda settled in Rancho Cordova, California. Together, they traveled in the United States, Europe and Southeast Asia, including annual three-month trips to the Philippines, where Linda has extensive family and friends. Arnold had been working hard to regain mobility and strength following a stroke and operations.

He died on Sept 20, 2023.

Arnold was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Mable Detmer, and his brother, Earl Detmer. Arnold was also survived by his sister, Janet Mitchell, of Rising Sun.