Arnold Schlafman , 81, Burlington, died Thursday, December 20, 2007.

Arnold was born March 20, 1926, in Mercer, ND, the son of Carl and Emelia (Laib) Schlafman. He was raised and educated in country schools near Mercer. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on February 1, 1945, and was honorably discharged on December 8, 1946. Arnold was stationed in Japan while in the army.

Arnold was united in marriage to Nanna Grantham on August 20, 1947, in Montana. They made their home in Bismarck, where Arnold was a truck driver for Ted's Transfer and Ed Philips and Sons. He owned and operated Arnies Bar in Mercer from 1970 until 1976. Arnold and family moved to Washington State in 1976, where over the course of the years, they managed apartment buildings and owned and operated the 49er Motel. After retiring, Arnold enjoyed doing woodworking and relaxed weekends traveling with Nan in their motor home. Arnold and Nan returned to North Dakota in November of 2005, because of Arnold's failing health. Since their return they have enjoyed family reunions and summer celebrations at Mercer, ND.

Arnold's hobbies included traveling, woodworking, playing horseshoes and pinochle. He loved spending time at Brush Lake with his family and friends.

Arnold will be greatly missed by his: Wife: Nanna, Burlington; Daughters: Wanda Sue (Randy) Bergan, Burlington, Valorie Jane (Brad) Hunter, Deer Park, WA; Son: Scott Allen (Schelley) Schlafman; Daughter-in-law: Connie Schlafman, Grandchildren: Clint (Jennifer) Bergan, Chad (April) Bergan, Travis and Matthew Hunter, Lindsie and Samantha Schlafman; Great grandchildren: Andrew, Alexis, Ashlyn, Bridger, Raina; Sister: Darlene (Ronald) Sahr; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Arnold was preceded in death by his parents, his son: Daryl "Butch" Schlafman on January 6, 2006; and brothers: Alvin, Herbert, Otto, John, Rueben, and Eugene.

Funeral: A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Interment: Mercer Cemetery, Mercer, North Dakota