My father trusted him implicitly and knew he could always count on him. And I knew that any confidences I shared with him were safe.
The years passed and we all grew older. Many faces changed at The Jewish Press, but Arnie remained constant.
Fourteen years ago my father died. It was a difficult time for all of us, but I remember Arnie telling me he would be there for me. And, true to his word, he was always there at his desk, writing and dispensing his wonderful anecdotes.
More time passed and various ailments cropped up. One day as I passed Arnie’s desk I asked him how he was feeling.
“Let me tell you why I come to work every day,” he said. “It isn’t easy, but as long as I am able I will be here, for one reason only.” He then beckoned me to the other side of his desk and pointed to a picture taped there. It was a photograph of my father.
“He is the reason I am here. He is the reason I have worked here heart and soul for over fifty years and he is the reason I will be here as long as I am able.”
That was Arnie Fine. Loyal to the core. A person who understood the Torah concept of makir tov – showing appreciation.
Rest in peace, dear friend, and thank you for all those times that I remember.