Arnold B. Kester

Arnold B. Kester, 84, resident of Cottonwood, Arizona, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 13, 2007. He was born April 14, 1922 in Spanishburg, West Virginia to Charles J. and Virgie Lee (Lusk) Kester. He was the youngest of 6 children, who were raised by their mother and Granddad Lusk after the death of their father. Arnold was just 2 years old. Arnold enlisted in the United States Navy after the Pearl Harbor bombing. He was one of 19 cousins who served with the Navy. After his time spent in the Navy, Arnold became a Sheriff in Scottsdale, Arizona. He will be best remembered as an Arizona Game and Fish Warden and Ranger, retiring in 1976 after 21 years of service. Arnold is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Mary Ann Kester; his sons, Mike Kester with his wife, Karen, and Charlie Kester with his wife, Rhonda; his daughter, Tammy Hughes with her husband, Bill; 8 grandsons and 2 granddaughters. All who knew Arnold will miss his many tales and his wonderful sense of humor. In memory of Arnold, an open house will be held at the Old VFW Building at the Verde Valley Fair Grounds, on Saturday, February 17, 2007 from 11:00-3:00pm with Military Honors presented at 11:30am. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to: Hospice of the Pines, 13175 E. Hwy 169, Dewey, Arizona 86327. An online guestbook is available at www.westcottfuneralhome.com