Obituaries

Nathan Spencer Arnold, age 17 of Centerville, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Oct. 15. Nate was born in Houston, Texas to David and Michele Arnold. From the very beginning, Nate had a unique and powerful purpose: to educate the world — not through words, but through the way he lived his life. Born with Down syndrome and facing other challenges, Nate never let anything stand in the way of his joy, curiosity, and love for life. He taught those around him that the small things matter — like how floor vents make excellent hiding spots, that nonverbal communication speaks volumes, and that ketchup is most definitely a food group. Nate’s lighthearted mischief, warmth, and silent wisdom touched everyone lucky enough to know him. Nate is survived by his loving mother, Michele Serotkin Arnold; his father, David Jay Arnold (Avigayl Young); and his brother, Charles Andrew Arnold. He is also survived by his Grammy, Haana Serotkin (the late Barry); his uncles, Kenneth Serotkin and Michael Serotkin (Helen); and his cousin, Gavin, whom he deeply adored. Nate also had a loving extended family in Houston, including his grandparents, John and Lori Crider, and Ken and Ruth Arnold, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins across the country. Never underestimate the power of presence. Nate will be dearly missed and forever remembered. Interment was at Beth Jacob Cemetery. Donations may be made to A Special Wish Foundation or a charity of your choice.

Felix Weil, age 97 of Dayton, passed away Oct. 14. Felix was a retired accountant and art dealer, a member of Beth Abraham Synagogue, and on the boards of many Jewish organizations in Dayton. He was preceded in death by Frances, his wife of 53 years. He is survived by and was a devoted father to Linda Weil Foster (Michael) and Loren Weil (Diane); an admired grandfather of Ethan, Emily, Noah and Hannah; and cousins, other relatives, and friends. Felix was born in Frankfurt am Main, Germany and was sent to England on the Kindertransport in 1939, leaving behind his parents and sister, who perished in the Holocaust. He spent much of his adult life telling “his story” by speaking to students throughout the Dayton area, recording a testimony with the Shoah Foundation, teaching classes on the Holocaust at the University of Dayton and Wright State University, among others, and volunteering at Wright-Patterson AFB. Interment was at Beth Abraham Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to The Kindertransport Association or Beth Abraham Synagogue in Felix’s memory.

Raymond L. Weinstein, age 94 of Dayton, passed away Oct. 7 at Miami Valley Hospital. Throughout his life, Ray was very kind and considerate to everyone he met. Ray worked at Sylvia’s Market, retiring after many years of service. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jacob and Sylvia Weinstein; brothers, Benjamin and Simon Weinstein; niece, Joyce; and sister-in-law, Geraldine; his furry friends, Butch, Tommy, and Sunny. He is survived by his special friends, Brian (Phyllis) Hewitt, Dan Shaffer, and Chris Jagierski; and many other relatives and friends.

To read the complete November 2025 Dayton Jewish Observer, click here.

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