Arlene Eleanor Riddell

Born in San Pedro, California on November 8, 1928, Arlene was the daughter of Margaret Butler and Ronald H. Ross, Sr.

Arlene attended San Bernardino High School and earned her associate’s degree from San Bernardino Valley College. She later made her home in Cherry Valley, California. For the last 10 years, she has resided in Redlands, California.

In 1948, Arlene married Stanley William “Bill” Riddell Jr., and during their 67 years of marriage together, they raised six children: Teresa Soldo, Sheila Riddell, Patricia Lococo, Stanley William Riddell III, John Ross Riddell, and Daniel Riddell. They spent half of their married life in San Bernardino before retiring and moving to Cherry Valley, California. Throughout the years of her children growing up, Arlene devoted herself to the care of her household—steady in her love, generous in spirit, and faithful in the daily work that holds a family together.

Arlene’s hands were rarely still. A very good quilter and seamstress, she sewed clothing for her children and found quiet purpose in making what was needed, what was beautiful, and what would last. She also enjoyed knitting blankets for people in the neighboring nursing home, extending simple warmth and kindness to others in a way that asked for no recognition. After moving to Cherry Valley, she became very active in the Acres and Neighbors Community Group. She also served actively in the auxiliary at San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital, where she was treasurer.

Arlene was deeply present in the lives of her children, active in all of their school activities and events, offering the dependable support that so often becomes a family’s foundation.

Arlene was preceded in death by her husband, her two brothers, and many sisters and brothers-in-law, who became her best friends. She is survived by her six children and their spouses, Vic Soldo, Ed Alves, Richard Lococo; three grandsons, Victor, Nicholas, and Marc; and great grandson Matthew; as well as her sister- in- law, Carol; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

We thank everyone for their kind words, love and support.