Arlene Elsie Surkan

Arlene Surkan passed away in her sleep on Sunday, November 6, 2022, at the age of 86. She suffered a stroke in the early hours of Friday, October 28. She was born on September 14, 1936, in Westmoreland, Prince Edward Island. Arlene met her future husband, Peter Surkan after he finished his basic training for the Royal Canadian Air Force. They were married on November 26, 1955. They began their married life in Chatham, New Brunswick. Because of Peter's job, they moved around Canada to places like Gimli, Manitoba, Brighton, Ontario, and Edmonton, Alberta. Peter preceded Arlene’s death in 2008. No matter where they lived or how old they got, Peter and Arlene always volunteered for numerous youth-oriented activities. Arlene and Peter were also longtime members of the Stony Plain Legion.

Arlene was the loving mother of Rhonda ( Oscar 2016), Donna, Peter, Lori (Don), and Traci (Shawn). Arlene was always a dedicated mother, first and foremost. Once Arlene’s five children were all in school, she re-entered the workforce, first in the jewelry department at Woolco and later as an operator at AGT. By 1983, Arlene and Peter lived on an acreage in Stony Plain, Alberta, which became affectionately known as “The Farm.” She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her later roles as grandma and “G.G.” She is remembered by her grandchildren: Kelsey (Glen), Jesse, Devan, Tara (Sean), Jarred (Hanna), Breanna, Emily, and Chloe, as well as her great-grandchildren: Kaias, Jameson, Harlo, Heidi, and Winnie.

Arlene had a vivacious personality and always made people around her laugh. She was an avid traveler and made friends everywhere she went. Her most notable travel spots were England, Arizona, Hawaii, Eastern Canada, and the Canadian Territories. Arlene’s most recent adventure was in September 2022, on a cruise down the Rhine River. She always wanted to do this as her husband, Peter, always mentioned its beauty while he was there on one of his numerous tours of duty.

Arlene's family will always be thankful for all the love and support she got during her life.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ParklandFuneralServices.com for the Surkan family.