Nella M. Robichaud

Nella M. Robichaud of Arlington, Ma. passed away peacefully on December 17, 2016 at the age of 95. Daughter of the late Maurice Scannell (Sergeant, Arlington Police Department) and Mary (O'Neil) Scannell of Arlington. Devoted wife of 46 years to the late Edgar J. Robichaud, who predeceased her in 1989. Mother of Edgar John, Jr. of Scottsdale, AZ, Martin (Kathy) of Lynn, MA, Bernadette Ryan (Jim) of Longmont, CO, Daniel (Patti) of Burlington, MA and Philip (Anna) of Reading, MA. Also survived by nine grandchildren: Scott, Laurene, Jason, Danielle, Keefe, Christopher, Joseph, Aliana and Austin. Nella was great grandmother to Eden, Kyle, Brooklyn, James Thomas (JT), Evelyn, Elise and Thaddeus. Last surviving member of her family, predeceased by loving brothers Richard and Lawrence Scannell. Nella also leaves a host of friends from the Arlington Senior Center, Chestnut Manor and Saint Agnes Parish, as well as the Franklin St. and Park St. neighborhoods. Lifelong Arlington resident and devoted member of St. Agnes Parish. She was a devout Catholic, who even at 95, still said her evening prayers before bed, to be ready for her journey home. She didn't suffer before passing, only some discomfort over the last few days, which is a massive blessing to her family. A mother and homemaker who returned to school in her 50's for re-training, then worked 14 years in Claims for Kemper Insurance of Arlington and Burlington. Fitness enthusiast Nella did aerobics, line dancing and swam several times a week into her late 80's. Nella was an immensely proud Arlingtonian, hilarious, feisty and cherished by all. She loved to laugh/gab/sing/dance, and walk in her beloved sunshine. The world was blessed to have the old gal around for 95 years. Her last 15 months were spent in Colorado with loving daughter Bernadette providing incredibly devoted care, with tons of love/socialization/activity/companionship. Nella quickly became a beloved community fixture at the weekly Farmer's Market, enjoyed walks at the foot of the Rockies, and even played tambourine in a traveling Senior Band. (where, at 94, she was the 5th oldest member of the band!!). We chatted often, and by the wonders of technology, Nella was able to attend treasured granddaughter Danielle's November wedding via Skype. We will have a Celebration of Life for Nella in May of 2017, because Nella hated the cold. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fidelity House, Arlington, MA.