Arnold Ondarza III
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Arnold Ondarza, III, age 88, passed away peacefully at home in McKinney, TX, on August 12, 2022, three months after his beloved wife passed away.
Arnold was born, July 3, 1934, in San Antonio, to Arnold and Stella (Gomez) Ondarza, the oldest of their four children. He graduated from St. Mary's University, and while pursuing his college degree he worked at Retail Merchants where he met the love of his life, Irene Enriquez. They were wed on Feb. 2, 1957, and throughout their 65 years of marriage he was devoted to his wife and daughters. His deep faith in God and passion for life was evident. He greeted everyone with his catch phrase "life is good", and so it was. Arnold always bestowed a generosity of spirit to everyone he met and touched many lives. He proudly retired after 39 years of federal service that included the Dept. of Labor, FEMA, and EPA. He was also active in the community and church serving with the Lions Club, Saint Mark Catholic Church and St. Elizabeth Seton.
Our lovable Dad, "Papa", Uncle Skip, and friend will be remembered for his outgoing, kind, and generous ways. His favorite memories were about his family, their Sunday gatherings and poker games. He created many special memories for his own family and friends by carrying on those traditions. He enjoyed a house filled with people and made sure no one had an empty glass or plate.
Arnold is survived by daughter, Lisa Langford and husband Brian of McKinney, TX, daughter, Deborah Dunn and husband Brian of Prosper, TX, their children, Megan, Harrison and Pierce, his sister, Norma Heilman, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother, Robert Ondarza, Sr., sister, Lucinda Solis, and son, Ray Arnold Ondarza.
A mass will be held for Irene and Arnold Ondarza, Saturday, September 10, 2022, 9:30 am, in the Assumption Chapel at St. Mary's University. Interment of ashes will follow at San Fernando Cemetery #2.
In lieu of flowers, please honor him with a donation to the Visiting Nurse Association, or organization of your choice.
Sign the online guestbook at www.ariafuneral home.com