Arlene Marie Slye

Arlene was born in Alexandria, MN, to Marguerite and Clarence Wolfe, the second eldest of eight children. The family moved to Spokane, WA, where she attended Marycliff Catholic Girls High School. After graduation, she met Ivan L. Levison on a blind date and they were soon married. The couple eventually settled down in Burien, WA, where they raised their family. Arlene went back to school when the last of her children were grown and took a position at Seahurst Medical Clinic. After the passing of Ivan, she reimagined her life and became an ardent traveler, adventuring near and far. She later married Hugh Slye and welcomed Hugh’s family into her circle of love. The two made their home in Des Moines and spent part of the year in Arizona, where she enjoyed the dry climate and new friends from around the country.

Arlene’s personality was as bright and sunny as a summer day. Her smile was infectious. She enjoyed a good laugh and a firm hug. Everywhere she lived and visited, she collected friends and good memories. All were welcome into her orbit. For Arlene, it was all about family and friends, but especially the little babies. Seeing her grandchildren and great grandchildren gave her special joy. She always put others’ needs before herself. Buoyed by her Catholic faith, Arlene faced the end of her life like she faced most things in life--with courage and a sense of humor.

Arlene is survived by her children David Levison and wife Nola of Missoula, MT, Michael Levison and wife Cathy of Winlock, WA, Debra Levison of Fall City, WA, Lisa Levison of Des Moines, WA, and James Levison of Mukilteo, WA; her grandchildren Malia, Rachel, Renda, Dillon, Mary and husband Marcus, Darby and husband Garth, Billy, Tyler, Daniel, Hunter and wife Jessica; great grandchildren Markus, Micah, Malakai, Adaline, Evelyn and Theodore; her brother Richard and sisters Dorothy, Patsy and Marion.

She is predeceased by her son Rickey Levison, her first husband Ivan (Ike) Levison, her second husband Hugh Slye, and her brothers Jerry, Don and Bill Wolfe.

Services will be held on December 16th at 11:00 AM at St. Philomena Catholic Church in Des Moines WA. Reception will be held from 1:00 – 3:30 at Wesley Gardens, Club Room (5th floor), 815 S. 216th Street, Des Moines WA, 98198. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Seattle Children’s Hospital Foundation (give.seattlechildrens.org)