Arvel Boatner

Arvel Boatner 1/14/1943 – 1/7/2022   It is with a heavy and sorrowful heart to announce that Arvel Boatner, age 78, has gone to be with the Lord. Arvel peacefully passed late January 7^th, surrounded by his loved ones, acknowledging a life well-lived. His family is blessed, thankful, and grateful we were able to be involved and experience such a life with Arvel.   Arvel was born and raised in Ft Worth, Texas. He was a husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. Arvel was known for always trying to get a smile and laugh from whoever he was with. He was a salesman with “the gift for gab”, who had a story for every moment and a comment for each person he met.   Arvel never met a stranger and always cherished every interaction. His ability to relate made the connections memorable and all the more special, as he laughed and smiled with whoever he was with.   By attending festivals and rodeos, Arvel had the opportunity to meet so many unique people. He loved to share stories, connect with talented folks, and spread the Good News.   Always seeking a new adventure, Arvel did not intimidate easily. He would constantly take that opportunity to share the experience and knowledge with others wherever he was.   Arvel was one who truly enjoyed the outdoors. One of his favorite activities was being in nature with animals and seeing the glory of God’s creations each and every day. His favorite animal was a Capuchin Monkey. During his younger years, he used to raise and train Capuchin Monkeys with the Ft. Worth Zoo. He was constantly on the lookout for memorabilia to add to his “Monkey Collection”   Arvel learned to play 42 and Bridge from his parents and grandparents at a very young age. This created some of our fondest family memories, as we would sit around the table talking and playing 42. Arvel always treasured and loved when he was able to teach newcomers how to play.   Arvel rode motorcycles and raced stock cars for many years. Always the competitive person, he only accepted winning, which he usually did.   He was a devoted father who loved his sons, Yancy and Thad. He was an avid sport fanatic and loved every sport that the boys participated in. Everyone who was around Arvel knew and saw just how intense he could get with his enthusiasm for sports. His boys were his pride and joy. He was quick to pull out photos and show them playing different sports and list the accomplishments they had achieved.   Yancy had always been the right-hand man that would ensure Arvel’s plans were completed. Arvel happily welcomed a delightful daughter-in-law, Amanda, into the family in 2017. Yancy and Amanda presented Arvel with a gift he was so excited to receive, proud to acknowledge with others, and looked forward to sharing his life with: a healthy and happy grand-daughter. He officially had become “PA” and cherished every moment of this lofty and coveted title.   Thad along with his girlfriend, Diane, have been full of life and a pleasure for him to be around. Thad could get Arvel to laugh and smile with a joy that produced a true belly laugh. Diane is a source of hugs that words cannot describe, all the while giving a calm strength that settled Arvel.   The aspect that he was most proud of was watching his sons growth in faith and stature, which was amazing to see and be a part of. The path they have chosen to serve the Lord has made his heart swell with pride and joy.   Arvel and I (Sharon) were married for over 40 years. These many years were filled with laughs, tears, and a strong sense of family unity that kept us all together. It was a blessing to have a man that was so dedicated to providing for his family. He is survived by and missed dearly by his family, friends, and loved ones.   His health had become a factor that forced him to limit his activities, resulting in him not being able to get out and be a part of the community that he loved and cared for. He wholeheartedly missed visiting with everyone more than anyone will ever know.   We rejoice and find comfort in knowing that his pain is over. He is now face to face with God, where he is healed, strong, and full of joy, surrounded by love, mercy and grace beyond anything we can imagine.   The Boatner Family is unable to fully express our gratitude or say Thank You enough to the EMT’s, Dr. Rudolph, and the most supportive nurses we could ever have hoped of interacting with.   Arvel’s memorial service will be held at Alpine Funeral Home in Ft Worth, Texas on Wednesday January 12^th, 2022 from 12PM-2PM.   The scripture he was studying prior to his passing was from Deuteronomy 31:6, very suitable and appropriate for his transition. “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” Arvel knows the Lord went before him and prepared a place just for him. He is rejoicing and dancing on the streets of gold, looking down over us with love and fondness.   We will miss, remember, and love you. Until we meet again, Your Loving and Caring Family