Arlene Ethel Nelson

On January 9th, 2011 "Little Granny" passed away at home with her family by her side. Arlene was born July 15, 1926 in Sheridan, Oregon to Silas R. and Marie A. Phillips. In 1946 she married the love of her life, Carl E. Nelson. In 1948, they moved to Eureka to become shareholders in Mutual Plywood in Fairhaven. In 1959, they became partners with Don Hobson and built Eureka Travelodge. Arlene was a talented and successful businesswoman. As the years went by, she and Carl owned a share at Brookings Plywood in Brookings, Oregon, owned and operated Uniontown Laundry in Arcata, and were partners in Travelodge at the Wharf in San Francisco. She made sure her hard work ethic was passed on to her family. She enjoyed 44 years of marriage with Carl before he passed away. They traveled all over the United States, but always enjoyed returning to their beautiful home in Salyer. She was a wonderful homemaker and enjoyed meals with family and friends. She was a great teacher, listener and friend. Her best advice always was "give it time" and she was right. She loved to go anywhere and everywhere with her family, and because of that we will always remember her. She enjoyed road trips to Brookings, the river, feeding the birds and afternoons to the casino. Granny cherished being a grandmother and many friends of her grandchildren happily called her "Granny". Arlene will be missed by all that knew her and especially by her special friends Robbie and Vickie Hartman. She leaves behind her daughters Carlene and Art Green in Eugene, Oregon and Karen and Darryl Draper in Eureka; grandchildren Scott and Tracey Green, Steven Green, Andrew Cunningham, and Lindsey and Brian Grossman; great grandchildren Megan, Taylor, Evan, Levi, and Matthew. Arlene always appreciated the years of help and friendship she received from Ines Furtado. She also leaves behind many other relatives and friends. She was an animal lover at heart and leaves behind her beloved, grumpy, little dog "Pepper". The family wishes to thank Mad River Adult Day Health and Hospice of Humboldt for all the help in these final months. She will be laid to rest with Carl. At her request no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humboldt County Animal Shelter. Arrangements are under the care of Pierce Mortuary, Eureka, CA 707-442-3751, www.piercemortuarychapels.com.

Published in Eureka Times-Standard on January 11, 2011