Arnold “Arnie” Brunner, 77, of Route 6, Smethport, PA passed away Sunday (Jan. 1, 2023) at Olean General Hospital.

Born March 13, 1945, in Olean, N.Y., he was a son of William and Evelyn Walker Brunner. On Aug. 28, 1971, in the Duke Center United Methodist Church, he married Susan Curtin, who survives.

Mr. Brunner was a 1963 graduate of the Belvidere (Ill.) High School. After being born in Duke Center, his family moved to Illinois, but Arnie decided to move back to the local area as soon as he graduated high school.

He then attended some of the inaugural classes at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford while painting houses to finance his degree. He went on to receive a B.S. in forestry from Penn State University in 1967.

After working as a forester for the PA State Game Commission and the Buehler Lumber Company of Ridgeway, Arnie went on to a successful career as an independent forester. In 1991, he opened A-1 Rent-All Sales in Olean, which he operated alongside his wife for 31 years. They also started Stoney Acres Alpaca Farm together in Smethport, where they raised alpacas for 18 years.

Arnie enjoyed everything involving the outdoors and spent as much time as possible outside. He loved hunting, swimming, gathering firewood, and of course, working. He was known for his strong-willed nature but also for being very generous to those close to him.

Surviving in addition to his wife of 51 years are their son, Christopher, along with his partner Ashli; and three granddaughters, Katelyn, Leah and Maddie; as well as several extended family members.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, William and Teddy; as well his infant sister, Marilyn.

As per Arnie’s request there will be no services held at this time. Burial will be in Duke Center Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made in Arnie’s honor to an outdoor conservation charity of the donor’s choice. In lieu of flowers, take a walk in the woods, help a neighbor or enjoy the little moments with family and friends.

Online condolences may be made at www.framefuneralhome.com.