Mario Jorge Arnaez

Mario Jorge Arnaez, 70, passed away peacefully at his home in Asheville, NC, on September 14, 2026.

Mario was born on May 14, 1956, in Havana, Cuba and lived in Coral Gables, FL, until retiring to Asheville in 2023. He was blessed to have the love of an extended family while growing up in Miami and Hialeah, FL. Mario graduated from Miami Central High and then attended Florida International University.

Mario enjoyed a successful career at Ultimate Software (ULTI) working there for nearly 30 years, rising to the position of Senior Director. He made many friends at ULTI, acting as mentor, guide and support for many people over the years. He was unofficially known as the “ULTI professor.” Mario truly believed in the incredible culture of ‘people first’ at ULTI and lived that culture in all areas of his life. His family and friends are very grateful for the outpouring of support from the ULTI community and the many beautiful, shared memories.

Mario enjoyed traveling extensively over the years with his husband Richard, often joined by their good friend Tony Tella. He also loved going to the theatre, movies and museums as well as getting together with friends for dinner and game nights.

Mario was a smart, funny, and compassionate man who had a refreshingly honest approach to life. He was very proud of his Cuban heritage. He sincerely cared about others and had a particular passion for the welfare of all animals. He believed in giving back to the community and volunteered at Zoo Miami and later in Asheville at the WNC Nature Center and the WNC Bridge Foundation.

Mario loved life and enjoyed every moment he had with Richard, his family, and his many friends, near and far. He also loved caring for his beloved dog Luna. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mario is survived by his husband, Richard Shannon; his beloved niece and nephews, Martha Christine Arnaez, Jon Arnaez and Joseph Arnaez; and his sister-in-law, Martha Arnaez. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Olga Arnaez (Hernando), and his brother, Jose Arnaez.

There will be a celebration of Mario’s life on Sunday, October 18, from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Tarantella Restaurant in Weston Town Center, 1755 Bell Tower Ln, Weston, FL 33326. A celebration of life will also be held in Asheville at a later date.

Donations may be made to the Western North Carolina Nature Center at wildwnc.org/donate/