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In memory of
Arnold Lawrence Mende
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Arnold's obituary
Truly one of a kind, Arnold was an entrepreneur with an unparalelled intelligence, a fierce independence, eternal optimism, an incredible will, and a wonderful sense of humor – no one told better stories or told stories better.
A graduate of the Cornell ILR school and Harvard Business School, he loved innovation and innovators and helping launch businesses that could make a difference in people's lives. He founded the Data Architects software company in the 1960s, and raised venture capital for Logos, the groundbreaking computerized language translation company founded by Bud Scott, in the 1970s.
Not all of his ventures succeeded -- he worked tirelessly to fund the development of the first recordable video disc player, which never came to market, and to launch the first privately owned hotel in Communist era Poland, which came to a halt with the Soviet invasion in 1980. But he was never deterred from efforts to conceive and execute innovative business launch plans.
Less known but equally reflective of his character: he served Thanksgiving meals at a local soup kitchen every year while he lived in the North End of Boston, and helped Asian immigrants register to vote in Florida after he retired. His community spirit and leadership dated back to his youth as an Eagle Scout and as a ferocious lefthanded hitter for Albany High.
Among the sayings for which he was renowned:
If everyone liked the same thing, there wouldn't be enough to go around.
The enemy of good is better.
If all else fails, read the directions.
Whether you're rich or whether you're poor, it's always nice to have money!
Arnold is missed but his spirit lives on.
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The American Cancer Society shares our sincerest condolences for your loss. If you need support during this difficult t…
The American Cancer Society shares our sincerest condolences for your loss. If you need support dur…
The American Cancer Society shares our sincerest condolences for…
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In lieu of flowers, consider a gift to American Cancer Society.
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Created with love by
Craig Mende (Arnold's son).
