WILMINGTON — Lou was born on September 4, 1934, and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was a man whose life was defined by service, strength, and deep love for his family. He passed away on February 7, 2026, at 91 years of age in Wilmington, NC leaving behind a legacy that spans generations. Lou lived a life rooted in faith, service, quiet strength, and an unwavering devotion to his family.
Lou was married to the love of his life, Marion, for more than 65 years. Together they built a family that was his greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. He was a loving father to Louis III (Vicky), Nicolle (Rick), Bruce (Janet), Reid, and Damon (Julie), and a steady presence to generations that followed. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Anna Arné; his sister, Patricia Arné Bauman; and his infant son, Reid Christopher Arné,
Lou proudly served four years in the United States Air Force, retiring in 1958 as a Staff Sergeant. His faith guided his life, and he was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, serving as Bishop in the Raleigh North Carolina Stake, always leading with humility and compassion – always more comfortable serving than being thanked.
Professionally, Lou worked for The Franklin Institute for Research and Development in Philadelphia, PA. He later spent 33 years with IBM, a career that took his family from Philadelphia, to New York, Vermont, Virginia and ultimately North Carolina, where roots were firmly planted. After retirement, he successfully launched a handyman business, “Homework by Lou,” for 10 years before retiring for good. In 2007, Lou and Marion moved to Wilmington, North Carolina to be closer to family. In his spare time, he enjoyed researching his ancestors, tracing his roots back through his mother’s lineage to Queen Elizabeth and Winston Churchill.
Lou was happiest fixing things, building things, and helping people without ever seeking recognition. His garage was a treasure trove of tools and saved pieces “just in case,” and somehow, he always had exactly what was needed. Most importantly, he was kind, always genuinely wanting to help; he was full of quiet wisdom. He did whatever he could, whenever he could – seemingly insignificant and sincere acts that comprised a dedication to helping those in need. No grand gestures for appearances, but rather small and humble deeds that over a lifetime demonstrated his desire to be of service. Simple and principled, good, and decent. To know him was to feel cared for. Heaven has gained a beautiful soul!
His light lives on in the lives he touched, in the stories we tell and in the love that continues to grow through his family. He was a proud grandfather of 15 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers the family graciously requests donations to your veterans’ charity of choice. A few that come to mind are Semper Fi & America’s Fund and Wounded Warriors, these organizations honor the values Lou held dear.
