Joseph Arbena

Dr. Joseph Luther Arbena (1939-2013) Professor Emeritus of History at Clemson University from 1965-2006 passed away on October 25, 2013 at his home in Clemson, SC. A graduate of George Washington University (B.A.,1961) and from The University of Virginia (PhD,1970), he spent most of his career as a Professor of History. His teaching interests included the fields of the history of Colombia and Panama, United States-Latin America relations, Latin American music, and his true specialty, modern sports.

Dr. Arbena published several books in sports fields, making major contributions to the understanding of sports and the rise of national identity. His reputation earned him invitations to serve as a guest faculty member at several universities across North America and New Zeland. He was a great believer in education for all, which made him an extremely popular professor. He was an active member of the community participating in the governance of Clemson by serving on numerous committees to improve academic standards and resources.

In addition to his wife Consuelo Arbena, he is survived by his two children, son Scott Arbena and daughter Robin Beaton, his three grandchildren Avery, Dylan, and Aidan Beaton, and his sister Betty Ann Vest.

Visitation will be Sunday evening from 6 to 8 pm at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will take place on Monday, October 28, 2013 at 1:00 P. M.at the funeral home, followed by burial at Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Clemson University Library 116 Sigma Dr.,Clemson, SC 29631.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.robinsonfuneralhomes.com or at Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home which is assisting the family.