Roland loved our Shalva children. Although he was a powerful businessman and statesman, he literally melted in the presence of our children and could be seen, often, blinking back tears as he empathized with the lives of so many Shalva families.

Perhaps most revealing was the unique friendship he forged with Yossi Samuels , blind and deaf since infancy. It was Ambassador Arnall who personally stepped in and made Yossi's dream of meeting President Bush come true by arranging an invitation to the White House during Hanukah 2006. This was a life changing gift for Yossi, and everyone who was present at that memorable event recalls Roland's irrepressible smile as he pushed Yossi's wheelchair through the halls of power. Despite the severity of his disabilities, Yossi would hold Roland's hand and quietly say "Roland" as if it was a magic word and, perhaps, it was. Yossi was able to sense the combination of sensitivity and dignity which defined this special man.

Roland Arnall was a humble giant who touched the lives of all who knew him. All of us at Shalva pray that his soul be bound up in the bond of eternal life. We mourn his untimely passing.

Arnall, Roland

ARNALL--Roland, Ambassador. American Friends of Shalva is deeply grieved by the passing of our beloved friend Ambassador Roland Arnall, a philanthropist whose generosity benefited a wide spectrum of humanitarian causes in the US , Israel , and around the world. His life story of his youth during the Second World War, and his ensuing success in his beloved, adoptive country of the United States could fill books. He never forgot where he came from, and always looked out for everyone less fortunate than himself. We are eternally grateful for his generosity and commitment to Israel 's special needs children.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Dawn and their entire family. May his soul be bound up in the bond of eternal life, and may his memory always be for a blessing.

Kalman Samuels , Founder & Director Shalva Israel
Nathan Low and Leon Wagner, Chairmen of the Board
Ari Storch, President, American Friends of Shalva