Dick Van Arsdale

Dick Van Arsdale, beloved figure in the world of basketball, cherished member of the Phoenix Suns and devoted friend to many, passed away on December 16, 2024, at the age of 81. Van Arsdale was a key figure in the evolution of professional basketball in the Valley of the Sun, known for his tenacious playing style and leadership on the court, and his kindness and gentle personality off the court.

Born on February 22nd, 1943 along with identical twin brother Tom in Indianapolis, Indiana, Van Arsdale was raised in a basketball-loving family. He attended Manual High School in Indianapolis and was selected as co-Mr. Basketball Indiana in 1961 with his twin brother, Tom. He attended Indiana University, where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and met his wife Barb on a blind date and they have been together for 63 years. He played for the Hoosiers before being selected by the New York Knicks in the 1965 NBA Draft. However, it was his selection by the newly formed Phoenix Suns franchise in the 1968 expansion draft that made him a household name in Arizona, where he played for most of his career. He was hesitant to leave New York for the desert, but his dear friend Bill Shover convinced him it was the right choice. 

Over the course of his 12-year career in the NBA, the “Original Sun” earned a reputation as a gritty and reliable guard, making him a fan favorite. His ability to contribute on both ends of the court earned him the admiration of teammates and opponents alike. He was a three-time All-Star and was known for his remarkable ability to score, defend, leadership by example and physical toughness. Van Arsdale's loyalty to the Suns organization, where he played from 1968 to 1977, cemented his place as one of the franchise's early stars. 

After retiring as a player, Van Arsdale remained active in the basketball community, working in various capacities with the Suns including senior vice-president of player personnel, interim head coach and television analyst. He served as an ambassador for the team and continued to engage with fans throughout his life, offering insights and sharing stories of the game he loved. In recognition of his contributions to the Suns and the game of basketball, the franchise retired Van Arsdale’s No. 5 jersey, ensuring his place in the annals of the team's history. His legacy is not only marked by his on-court achievements but by his enduring influence on the players and teams that followed him.

He founded Van Arsdale Properties with brother Tom. One of Dick’s favorite community services was being a member of the Thunderbirds and working on the Phoenix Open golf tournament. 

Unfortunately, he suffered a stroke in 2005 and retired from playing shortly thereafter. In retirement, he became an avid artist, starting a small art studio in Scottsdale. He worked daily on his craft, having his work shown at galleries and sold for various charities. In addition, his true love of flyfishing in Montana with Tom and his cousins Mike and John was a highlight of his life. 

Dick adored his kids and grandchildren and knowing they were happy was his primary concern. He was known for his quiet, thoughtful nature, playful humor, commitment to family, and deep faith in Jesus Christ. Throughout his life, he developed life-long friendships, from childhood friends, fraternity brothers, teammates, opponents and a wealth of friends after his playing career. 

He was preceded in death by his father Raymond and mother Hilda, and is survived by his wife of 58 years Barb, children Jill (Sean) and Jason (Ronda), grandchildren Will, Lucy, Sofia, Peyton, and his brother Tom. His family was the center of his life and they will miss him greatly. 

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday, December 23. Visitors can stop by anytime between 4-7pm at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 East Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Private interment will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Arizona Humane Society, Tunnel to Towers, Valley Presbyterian Church or Hospice of the Valley.