Arnold A. Durtschi

Arnold A. Durtschi, 91, of Hickory, NC passed away on Tuesday July 29, 2025 at his residence following a period of declining health.

Arnold was born on June 1, 1934 in Los Angeles County, California to the late Frederick Durtschi and Ruth Langy Durtschi. He was a man of diverse experiences and unwavering dedication. As a United States Army veteran, he served his country with honor. He was a graduate of UCLA with a math degree and his professional life was marked by his fortitude as a self-employed computer programmer.

Arnold loved his long walks, reading, crossword puzzles and eating out with family and friends. Above all he was a devoted and loyal husband to his wife, Shirley Gann Durstchi for over 51 years. In his youth, he traveled extensively around the world with South America holding a special place in his heart. He continued traveling voraciously up to the time of his passing, traversing all seven continents and a grand total of 59 countries. His life was a journey of service, family, love and leaving a legacy of cherished memories.

Left to preserve his preciousness includes his daughters, Deborah O’Bryan and husband Jim of Somerville, MA and Rebekah Mackie and husband David of Hickory, NC; and four grandchildren, Connor O’Bryan of Portland, OR, Collin O’Bryan of Somerville, MA, Alïta Alison Laurén of California, and Andrew Mezen of Hickory. In addition to his parents and wife, his two brothers also preceded him in death, Beldon and David Durtschi.

An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.mackiefh.com.

Mackie Funeral Service & Cremations of Granite Falls is serving the family.