Vernal Buford Arnhart, 96, former resident of Benton City, Washington, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2021, in Oregon City, Oregon. Vernal was born June 15, 1925, in Crabtree, Arkansas. He was the seventh-born in a family of ten children. Growing up in a large family, Vern was much more comfortable working in the kitchen with his mom than working outside with his dad and brothers. When Vern was eleven years old, he contracted rheumatic fever and spent one whole year in bed under the care of his mom. Because of the resulting effects of that fever, he was denied military entrance the first few times he applied, but went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Army from 1945-46. He would often speak of being seasick on his journey to Japan to invade which soon turned into an occupation force. After his military experience, he married the love of his life, Merle Rhoten, in May of 1949 and they enjoyed over 60 years together. They raised two sons in the family home. Vern retired from GSA as a mechanic/painter. In his free time, he enjoyed woodworking, coffee, baking, flowers, and helping people in need. Vern was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Benton City, serving in multiple capacities by helping with building projects, VBS, landscaping, and painting. The church steeple was not a favorite item to paint, and he enjoyed the day it was removed. Vern loved to laugh and was a kind and loving husband, father, grandfather (affectionately known as Papa), and friend. His laugh was infectious, causing those who heard it to begin laughing. Vern spent the last two years of his life on Hospice both in Bellingham, WA and Oregon City, OR. He was loved and greatly cared for by a number of dedicated people, including his two sons and their wives. Vern is preceded in death by his loving wife, Merle, whom he faithfully cared for in her last years. He is survived by sons Greg (Vicki) and Garth (Bonnie); grandchildren, Kyle, Michelle, Laura, Zach, Michael, Emily, Janeal, William, Tommy, and Caroline; several great-grandchildren; two wonderful nieces Linda Darling, and Marlene Velasquez and nephews Phil Harper & Doyle Jackson. Many fabulous friends and extended family who loved him dearly. A graveside service will be held on Sunday, October 3, 2021 at 1:00pm Einan’s Funeral Home.