Amy Arnaz, born Amy Laura Bargiel on September 12, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, was a celebrated dance teacher, arts advocate, and the wife of actor and musician Desi Arnaz Jr. Known for her artistic talents, dedication to her community, and role in the Arnaz family, Amy left an enduring mark on both her family and the Boulder City arts community before her untimely death on January 23, 2015, at the age of 63.
Early Life and Family Background
Amy Laura Bargiel grew up in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Charles and Libby Kral Bargiel. She was raised alongside her siblings, developing a passion for dance and performance from an early age. Amy’s early years were marked by a love of the arts, which would later become the foundation of her professional and personal life.
While not much is publicly known about her childhood education, her talent and interest in dance eventually led her to a career in teaching and arts management.
Personal Life and Marriage
Amy married Desi Arnaz Jr. on October 8, 1987. Desi Arnaz Jr. is the son of television legends Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, making Amy part of one of the most iconic families in American entertainment history.
Prior to her marriage with Desi, Amy had a daughter named Haley from a previous relationship. After marrying Desi Arnaz Jr., Haley became part of the Arnaz family. Together, Amy and Desi focused on building a family-centered life while pursuing their shared interests in the arts and community work.
Career and Contributions to the Arts
Amy Arnaz was deeply involved in dance and community arts. Her most notable contributions include:
- Founder of Dance Etc.: Amy established this dance school in Boulder City, Nevada, where she taught generations of students. She emphasized discipline, creativity, and the joy of dance, making a lasting impact on her students.
- Boulder City Ballet Company: Amy founded this local ballet troupe, creating performance opportunities for local dancers and cultivating an appreciation for the performing arts in the community.
- Owner of Boulder Theatre: Amy also managed and supported the historic Boulder Theatre, a venue for performances, local arts, and cultural events. Under her guidance, the theater became a hub for the community and a platform for emerging artists.
Amy’s dedication to the arts extended beyond teaching; she nurtured the local culture, promoted young talent, and encouraged community engagement in creative endeavors.
Community Involvement and Spiritual Life
Amy and Desi were actively involved in the New Life Foundation, a spiritual community focused on personal growth and study. She was highly respected for her generosity, mentorship, and efforts to uplift those around her, whether through arts education or community service.
Her contributions left a lasting legacy, with students and community members remembering her warmth, guidance, and passion for life.
Health, Illness, and Death
In her later years, Amy battled a serious illness. She passed away on January 23, 2015, at the age of 63 due to complications from a brain tumor (brain cancer). The diagnosis and subsequent illness were a private struggle, and she died surrounded by her family.
Her death was a significant loss for the Boulder City community, the arts programs she supported, and her family. The news was shared through local obituaries and online memorials, honoring her life and accomplishments.
Funeral and Memorial
Amy’s funeral was held privately at Star Mortuary & Crematory in Boulder City, Nevada. Family, friends, and former students attended the service to honor her life. Tributes highlighted her devotion to her family, her impact as a teacher, and her contributions to the local arts community.
Community members and arts organizations later held additional memorials and tributes to celebrate her legacy, ensuring that her influence would continue beyond her passing.
Legacy and Influence
Amy Arnaz’s legacy continues through:
- The students she taught and inspired through Dance Etc.
- The Boulder City Ballet Company, which carries forward her vision for dance education and performance.
- The cultural enrichment of the Boulder Theatre, a platform she helped sustain for local arts.
- Her family, including her daughter Haley and husband Desi Arnaz Jr., who carry forward her values and dedication to community and creativity.
Her life is remembered as one of passion, creativity, and service to others. Amy’s impact on the arts and on those around her ensures she will not be forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amy Arnaz
Q: Who was Amy Arnaz?
A: Amy Arnaz was a dance teacher, arts advocate, and the wife of Desi Arnaz Jr., part of the iconic Arnaz family.
Q: How did Amy Arnaz die?
A: She died due to complications from a brain tumor (brain cancer) on January 23, 2015.
Q: How old was Amy Arnaz when she died?
A: She was 63 years old.
Q: Did Amy Arnaz have children?
A: Yes, she had a daughter named Haley, who was adopted by Desi Arnaz Jr. after their marriage.
Q: Where was Amy Arnaz from?
A: She was born in Chicago, Illinois, and later lived in Boulder City, Nevada.
Q: What was her contribution to the arts?
A: She founded Dance Etc., Boulder City Ballet Company, and managed the Boulder Theatre, significantly impacting the local arts community.
Conclusion
Amy Arnaz’s life was one of creativity, devotion, and community service. She combined her love for dance and performance with a commitment to family and local arts, leaving a legacy that continues through her students, family, and the institutions she nurtured.
Though her life was tragically cut short by brain cancer, her contributions, influence, and spirit remain celebrated by those who knew her, making her a beloved figure whose impact will endure for generations.