On February 8, 2011, Arthur W. "Nick" Arundel died at his home, "Merry Oak Farm" in The Plains.

An outstanding Virginian in every sense of the word, the list of honors awarded him is exceeded only by the list of his public achievements, and the chronicle of a lifetime of good works, known and, all too often, unknown: lives touched, lands saved, institutions created, restored, or rejuvenated.

His life and work set standards: the standards he imposed on himself, and by example, on all those who knew, or knew of him, or later wished they did.

For those of us in the news business, his articulation of the purpose of a newspaper still stands as both guide and goal.

Written in late 1964, just after he took the reins of the Loudoun Times Mirror, it reads in part:

"This newspaper will never tolerate injustice or corruption; it will battle political demagogues; it will insure the right of each political faction to be heard; but will itself belong to no party.. It will defend state and individual rights, and will support existing laws while advocating better ones. This newspaper will also be a conscience to those in public office."

For all that he bought, built, created, changed and accomplished in this life, his true memorial remains his sense of honor, and the people and ongoing institutions he mentored and inspired.

We who are in your debt mourn your passing, and offer our heartfelt condolences to those who knew and loved you. We also celebrate your life, and take heart in the ongoing inspiration of its ideals and achievements.