Arnold Matthew lived a life guided by his father’s footsteps frankly . . . although he may not have admitted that.  He was very proud and considered himself self-made and a trailblazer.

To his family Arnold was an aspirational/imperfect combination of true wisdom and human shortcomings, borne of life-wounds he may or may not have been truly aware of or understood.  To his friends and acquaintances he was engaging, bright, quick-witted, a substantive mind and a fount of knowledge and wisdom particularly when it came to his work.  

With respect to especially his work he WAS that trailblazer he saw himself as, leaving tracks of his own project by project for those who travelled/worked with him to interpret and follow in their unique way. If nothing else, he had an assertiveness in work and life, and he delighted in trying to shine the light of his wisdom on all who were receptive.  

Many of us strive to have what we truly enjoy meld with how we make a living.  Arnold was lucky in that regard because his life was helmed by what he loved, which was construction and trades.  In that regard he has left his mark excellently many places and in many ways.  From the Caribbean, where he was from, to the United States, he strived to be the best at what he did with a dedication to the work that was very personal and tenacious.  

His journey and cut short like this by his passing, has an air of incompleteness if one is honest.  He seemed like he had more to offer the world with respect to what he did.  These things always seem like that one could say, but we can take heart in the fact that his legacy will continue on in the many people and friends he's mentored and taught valuable skills and construction approach philosophy over the years, including two of his children who presently work in the same field with much success.  

His hand in this regard will still be 'at work' through the contributions of many who live on and prosper with what he imparted to them.  If you knew him you would know that one of Arnold Matthew's Most Central Identities in life was that of a Construction Man . . . a Builder.

May Arnold 'Build' in Happiness, Ease and Peace . . . forever more.