David J. Arnold Jr.

David J. Arnold, Jr., 49, of Lebanon, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Sunday, January 17, 2021. Dave was born November 25, 1971, son of Betty Armpriester, of Lebanon, and David Arnold, Sr., of Lebanon. Dave was preceded in death by his mother.

Dave was a 1989 graduate of Cedar Crest High School. He continued his academic career at Kutztown University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. In pursuit of his dream Dave went on to obtain his law degree from Widener University Commonwealth Law School in 1996, located in Harrisburg. Dave was a member of Lebanon’s Lions Club and Steitz Club, a former President of the Pennsylvania District Attorney’s Association (2016-2017), and a spirited coach for his daughter’s softball team. Dave served as Lebanon County’s District Attorney from 2006-2020, where he enthusiastically defended the rule-of-law. On January 14, 2020, Dave won the special election for the 48th Senatorial District of the Pennsylvania Senate securing nearly 65% of the vote. Dave was sworn-in as a Pennsylvania Senator on January 29, 2020, a position he held until his passing.

Dave was passionate about criminal justice and advocated for public policy that focused on ensuring public safety, safeguarding constitutional freedoms, protecting victims of crime, and assisting our first responders. June 24, 2020, became one of Dave’s most memorable days serving the people of Pennsylvania when he delivered an emotional address on the Senate Floor presenting his authored SR333 (Recognizing June 2020 as 'Cancer Survivors Recognition Month'). Senator Arnold stated, “There is no cure for most of the current survivors of cancer, but to all survivors, I say thank you. You give those of us who are afflicted the strength to keep fighting on ourselves. Some of us will win the battle; sadly, many of us will not. All are heroes the same to me, and I pray for all of you.”

Far more important than any credential or professional accomplishment Dave achieved, was his family. His love for his daughter, Reese, knew no limits. He was her coach, her mentor, and her best friend. Topping the list of Dave’s favorite moments in life were times spent traveling with his wife, Alicia, and Reese to softball tournaments, especially the national tournament in Ocean City, MD, during the summer of 2020 where Dave helped lead Reese’s team to a hard-fought second-place trophy.

Dave was deeply loved by family and friends alike. He had a smile that could light up a room. He believed in and exhibited hard work and integrity in all aspects of life. He was a man of few words, however the statements he chose to make were meaningful. He loved fighting for the underdog. He has passed on these qualities to Reese, and in that way he will continue to share his gifts with the world.

In respecting Dave’s wishes, his family will be holding a private memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, Senator Arnold’s family has requested that contributions may be directed to the Penn State Cancer Institute in his honor. Checks can be made payable to Penn State University, and should include “Brain Cancer Institute Research” in the memo line. Please mail contributions to the Office of University Development, 1249 Cocoa Ave, Suite 115, P.O. Box 852, Hershey, PA 17033-0852 or go to: https://engage.pennstatehealth.org