Arnold Yervant Foss

Dr. Arne Y. Foss, a loving family man and esteemed member of his community, passed away on July 19, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. His life was one marked by dedication, compassion, curiosity, and strength.

Arne was born on July 30, 1933, on Staten Island, New York, to Norwegian immigrant parents, Arne and Astri Skaardal Foss. Arne's academic journey began at Cornell University, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology. He was a member of the Air Force ROTC and active participant in the university crew team and the Sigma Nu Fraternity. Following his time at Cornell, Arne joined the US Air Force and proudly served for three years as a jet pilot in Texas, Georgia, Michigan, and Thule, Greenland.

In the early 1960’s, his pursuit of a medical career took him to Emory Medical School in Atlanta, Georgia, where he received his medical degree and subsequently completed a residency in radiology. In 1970, after a year of working for the University of Colorado in Denver, Arne and the family settled in Dothan, Alabama. He was one of only two radiologists in Dothan for years, and after more than 30 years of service, he retired a beloved physician known for his humor, work ethic, and generosity.

Arne met the love of his life, Jan Hinson Foss, on a blind date while a pilot in Georgia, and together they shared 67 years of marriage filled with love and laughter. Arne found one of his greatest joys spending time at Green Pond, his family's New Jersey lake house, which he considered his favorite place on earth. He loved fishing and hunting, was a sports enthusiast of all kinds, and was happiest when outdoors. His love for seafood knew no bounds. In 1979, he and Jan purchased a beach home on 30-A, where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends for decades. Despite living in Dothan for over 50 years, he never lost his New York accent. Arne's mischievous humor was routinely a source of joy and laughter for those around him. He was deeply committed to the Dothan Rotary Club, where he received the esteemed Paul Harris Award twice, reflecting his unwavering commitment to community service. Arne's sensitive and sentimental nature made him a compassionate man, beloved by everyone who had the fortune to cross his path. His generosity, both with his money and time, was boundless, and his curious mind was always eager to learn and explore new things.

Above all, Arne’s love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was paramount. He leaves behind a legacy of love and learning in his children, Arne M. Foss, Ken (Diane) Foss, Karla (Kevin) Reilly, and Erik (Evin) Foss; his twelve grandchildren, Hannah, Brittany, Sara, Tyler, Cameron, Cecilia, Olivia, Michael, Patrick, Maya, Morgaine, and William; and his great-grandchildren, Nora Ingrid Luly and the soon-to-arrive Collins Jan Foss. Arne also leaves behind his beloved furry companion, Pepper.

Arne was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jan Hinson Foss; by his parents, Arne and Astri Skaardal Foss; and by his sisters, Alice Garcia and Judy Stuart. He is survived by his sister, Cathy Gustavsen, and a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and family. In his final years, the compassionate care provided by the team at Joy Keepers, who became like family, will always be cherished by his loved ones.

A celebration of Dr. Arne Foss's life will be held at 11 am on Monday, July 28, 2025, at First United Methodist Dothan, with Dr. David Saliba officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 10-11 am to share memories and honor the man who’s life touched so many.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial donations be made to Wiregrass Pets Rescue and Adoption or First United Methodist Church in Arne’s memory.

Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com