Arnold Garritano, Jr.

April 9th, 1964 - August 8th, 2021

Arnold 's Memory Wall

We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Arnold here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.

To the Garritano Family, Words aren't enough to express my deepest sympathies for your loss/our loss. Arnie and I had a common interest in coaching Baseball. He coached my son in his 13-14 year old travel team days back here in Byron Center 17 years ago. Arnie was such a rare baseball coach and anyone lucky enough to have been coached by him is better for it. The family is in my thoughts and prayers. Arnie will be missed by many leaving a lot of great memories and a great family. I also know that he will be telling some of his awesome tales to a new audience, whom he will no doubt make smile the way he did so many in his all too short time here on earth. God Speed to you Arnie, Peace Be with you my friend.

Donald Bigelow

August 13th, 2021 at 8:22am

To the Garritano family, Not only am I shocked but heartsick learning of Little Arn’s passing. Terry and I got to know him and his warm wonderful family during 5-0’s Legion baseball at Riverview Park. What a super kid with a loving heart and a lot of mischief. You couldn’t help but smile/ laugh at Arnie’s antics and enthusiasm. I can only imagine his reunion with his adored Mom, 5-0, Vic Gillette and Terry Preston, Bill Johnson an Al McKee Bet they’ll talk baseball.. Keep your memories close and know you were blessed to have him in your lives as we all were.Prayers to each of you.

Chris Dwan Preston

August 12th, 2021 at 6:49pm

We are so sad to say good bye to one of the GREATEST coaches our daughter Olivia Shinrock has ever been blessed to have as a St. Joe Bear. It was only for one season, but it sure was a great one. Arnie was the kind of coach who was fun, encouraging, brilliant and was all about the kids. We loved watching him interact with the softball girls and other coaches, he sure loved life. One day we sat at Chili's with Arnie as we had a few beers and heard all about his family, he sure was proud of every one of his kids!! We are absolutely heartbroken and send our prayers for peace and comfort. The Shinrock Family

Marcy Shinrock

August 11th, 2021 at 6:13pm

When I moved to Dowagiac in December of 1980 to become sports editor of the local newspaper, the Garritano family became like my own family in what seemed like no time at all. Because he was such a skilled basketball and baseball player, I got to see/cover/report on Arnie quite a bit, and a friendship developed... Although we lost touch with each other over the years, at times, when we did reconnect it was like we had just seen each other the previous day. He was my friend and my brother, in addition to being a devoted husband, loving father and just a fun-loving, good-hearted and all around decent human being. Our family extends condolences and love to the entire family at this difficult time, and prays for comfort, healing and peace. Rest in peace, AG. Bill Templeton and family Rest in peace, AG