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Oct 6, 1954 - Nov 17, 2017
Our wonderful wife, mother, and friend Arlene passed away while on vacation with her husband Barry in Bali, Indonesia. She leaves a deep void in our hearts and will be hugely missed.

The daughter of Pastor William and Muriel Annett, Arlene was born in Winfield, BC and grew up in Alberta with brothers Ken and Dave.

Arlene and Barry met while working together at Copp the Shoeman in Red Deer, marrying 3 years later, on September 1st, 1973. Their 44 years of love, laughter, friendship, and mutual respect remain a light to others. Together they raised Ariane and Joanna in Nanaimo, BC and as a mother Arlene was "all in".

Returning to school to pursue a psychology degree and later a Masters in Counselling at UVic, her courage and work ethic were inspirational. Eternally generous with her time and love, the Simpson home was often a gathering place to eat, drink, sing, chat, and stay.

Arlene was known for her larger-than-life laugh, quirkiness, loyalty, deep compassion, and faith. As a counsellor, she cared deeply for her clients and was a pillar of strength and support.

Her greatest joy was time with family, in the water, singing, and traveling. Arlene loved God, scripture and was a dedicated member of the Neighbourhood Church for 30 years. A favourite verse she carried with her Phillipians 4:6-9.

She will be lovingly remembered by husband Barry, daughters Ariane and Joanna, son-in-law Sam, brother Ken & family, grandchildren Holden and Adelaird, Agnes, her best friends, church family and the many she opened her heart to.  

A service will be held in Nanaimo at 4pm on Saturday, December 2nd at the Neighbourhood Church. 

Arlene loved flowers but loves people and community more; in lieu of flowers please consider donations to:

Neighbourhood Church at http://nanaimoneighbourhood.church/donate/ , or

Vancouver Island Crisis Line at http://www.vicrisis.ca/donate/



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