Arlene Beatrice Clark

Arlene is missed by brothers George (Anne) and Brian (Adrienne), cousins Joy, Dale, and Mike, niece Alison and nephews Alan (Jess), Andrew (Sarah) and predeceased by Eric (Catherine), grand nieces and nephews Shavonne, Felicity, Annika, Lauren, Liam, Matthew, and godson Kenny, in addition to many close friends, including Joyce (Ray), Evelyn (a friend since kindergarten), and Margaret (predeceased).

After attending General Wolfe Elementary School and King Edward High School (Class of ‘62), Arlene earned an Education degree from the University of British Columbia, before beginning her 30 year career as an elementary school teacher with the Burnaby School District, a career that she loved. Students kept in touch with her long after graduation.

Arlene was an individual with a diverse set of interests that included her local Burnaby community, Canadian literature, games, crossword puzzles, and the Vancouver Canucks.

She was a talented quilter. In addition to her quilting groups, she co-founded the Parkcrest “Quilters Haven” shop in Burnaby with her friends Joyce and Michi. With her quilting friends, she organized fundraisers for the Burnaby Children’s Fund.

She was a patron of the arts, and a fan of Theatre under the Stars, Arts Club Theatre, and the Vancouver Symphony.

Gardening was another favourite pastime. In addition to her own beautiful garden, Arlene volunteered as a guide at VanDusen Botanical Garden.

Arlene also loved to travel, locally to Pender Harbour to a cabin shared with family and friends (Joe and Cheryl) and further afield in Canada, including the Arctic, the U.S., Europe, and New Zealand.

Arlene was someone who cared deeply about others. A talented conversationalist, ready with a quick laugh, Arlene loved to organize events to bring family and friends together. Always encouraging, thoughtful and inquisitive, Arlene was a natural and innovative teacher who will be greatly missed.

The family wishes to thank Joyce and Chelsea for all of the support provided. Gifts in Arlene’s memory may be made to Burnaby Children's Fund, BASES - Burnaby Association for South East Side, and VanDusen Botanical Garden.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.forestlawn-burnaby.com for the Clark family.