Friends,
I just wanted to let you know that my dad (Ian Arnof) died over the weekend at the age of 76. My brother & I were there with him at the hospital and he & my sister talked one last time just before he passed. He was an incredibly special guy in so many ways. He grew up in a town of 1,100 in McCrory, Arkansas, graduated from Vanderbilt and Harvard Business School, started his career in Memphis and later accepted a job with a bank in New Orleans. He loved his southern roots, was an avid hunter and fisherman, and incredibly generous with his time and advice with causes and people he cared deeply about. During his career in New Orleans he was very active in the community both personally and through the bank.  One example was his work to improve public education in New Orleans.  He also fought to address racism and sexism, and he was proud of what he did to promote women and minorities at the bank.  He was honored to receive an award from the Anti-Defamation League several years ago. At a law firm in New Orleans, when young associates asked what civic organizations and charities to join, they were told anything that Ian Arnof is involved in.  During retirement in Carmel, CA he remained active on Boards and attended regular lectures to continue his lifelong education. My dad was my hero in many ways and biggest fan. For his 70th birthday my brother, sister & I surprised him with notes, cards, and videos from ~100 of his friends, colleagues & family. He could not believe we all kept it a secret from him but he was incredibly touched by the outpouring of love and gratitude especially by people who considered him a mentor or the best boss of their careers. He was optimistic, funny and down to earth. Until the very end, my dad was making jokes to keep everyone at ease.  For example, for one of his last meals, he had tapioca pudding.  He removed the whipped cream on top stating that he was watching his weight and then smiled.  Throughout his life, my dad loved sending articles and jokes around and copying everyone he thought would enjoy it. We talked on the phone regularly and e-mailed even more. He will be missed dearly by many. He was positive and upbeat until the very end, making people laugh and smile with every encounter. I will miss him every day.  Live your life by the example he set for all of us, enjoying it to the fullest and doing your best work always. 
With a very heavy heart,
Lindy, Paige, and Ian