We Mourn the Passing of Dick Arnold

Dear Members,

It is with heavy hearts that Local Executive Director Shellea Allen and I must inform you of the passing of former Seattle Local President, Local Board member and our friend Dick Arnold in January. 

As an actor and voiceover artist, some of Dick’s body of work included appearances in the films Harry and the Hendersons, Pandora’s Clock and Black Widow, along with numerous roles in television, radio and theatrical productions.

Dick deeply believed in justice and equality for voiceover artists, actors and broadcasters — so much so that he was willing to devote significant amounts of time to union service for the benefit of his fellow members, and he never stopped. 

Dick was instrumental in putting together our SAG-AFTRA Seattle Local constitution, and at 92 years of age, he would often make the trip from the Kitsap Peninsula to our boardroom in Seattle — which was named in his honor in 2013 — to help organize for the future of the union. 

Dick joined AFTRA in 1958 and served as Seattle Local President from 1989 to 1993. In addition to his organizing work locally, he served on national SAG-AFTRA committees and attended several conventions. His legacy will not be forgotten.  A memorial to celebrate Dick’s life and career will be announced in the coming months. 

Rest in power,

Rik Deskin                                   
Seattle Local President