Arnold F. Sarlo

Arnold Frank Sarlo, better known as Big A, left us to join his beloved wife of 65 years, Mary Anne, in heaven on May 24, 2018. He is loved dearly & survived by 7 children, 12 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and a large extended family. 
Arnold was born in Fort Myers, FL on December 22, 1927 to Alfonso and Angelina Pavese Sarlo. He lived all 90 years in Fort Myers, moving away only to serve his country in the US Army Air Corps. Arnold's career was marked by dedication and hard work. At a young age, he started at Fort Myers Iron Works, a business begun by his father Alfonso and his uncle Anthony Sarlo. The family later founded Sarlo Power Mowers, one of the first manufacturing companies in Fort Myers.  Arnold became a partner in the business after Alfonso's death in 1945. He worked tirelessly at the Sarlo shop, retiring in 1995. He remained a silent partner in the business. 
Arnold was devoted to God and family. He was the first boy to graduate from St. Francis Xavier School and was an active parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Church throughout his life. He and Mary Anne were married there on Thanksgiving in 1951. Arnold first served the church as an altar boy, then as a lector.   
He later worked in various fund raising roles, most notably his many years as the number caller every Friday night for Bingo!
Arnold and Mary Anne enjoyed traveling together, and with their children & grandchildren. Together they visited much of the USA and many other countries. His spare time was spent with his family or fishing with his best friend, Jim Keating. Arnold was an avid reader, driving himself to the library to check out books.
A humble man, loyal to family and friends, Arnold was loved and respected by those who knew him. This was most evident during his final days by a constant  stream of visitors coming to say their good byes, show their love and share stories. Arnold wanted everyone to know "I love you and I mean it!"
A viewing will be held Wednesday, May 30th at Harvey-Englehardt Funeral from 5-8 pm. with a rosary at 7 pm . The funeral will take place 10am Thursday May 31st, 2018 at St. Francis Xavier Church. Burial will follow at Ft. Myers City Cemetery and then we will gather at St. Francis Hall.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to St. Francis Xavier Schools Rebuilding on Faith Campaign.  Please visit www.harvey-engelhardt.com to view his tribute and share a condolence.
 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.