May 4, 1940 - May 16, 2021
Carswell, Arleen Lenora (nee Abrahamson) It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mom on Sunday, May 16, 2021 at her home in Kiwanis Lodge, Nanaimo surround by those who loved her. She was born on May 4, 1940 in Vancouver, British Columbia to Elsie Lenora and Calvin Floyd Abrahamson.
Mom grew up and went to school in Port Alberni, graduating from ADHS where she excelled in athletics and helped her basketball team win the Jr. Girls Provincial Championship under the coaching of Denny Grisdale. During her years in Port Alberni, she was involved in many community activities including Jobs Daughter's becoming Honored Queen in 1959 and Miss Legion Br. 55 in 1961.
Arleen fell in love with her childhood sweetheart who was also her neighbour Roy Carswell and were married in Port Alberni on June 2, 1962. They relocated to Winnipeg to begin military life. While in Winnipeg, she excelled in archery.
Arleen eventually returned to her hometown and once again became involved in the community. Her love of music led her to audition for Timbre! She sang in many performances including My Fair Lady, The Mikado and The Pirates of Penzance.
Arleen worked in several schools in districts 68 & 70, mainly as a secretary whose skills and talents were appreciated and also as a ground's keeper.
In 1980 Arleen remarried her 1st love and welcomed 2 young stepchildren into her life becoming "Mum" to Renee and James.
In 2000, she finally retired from SD 68 which gave her more time to enjoy golfing with friends and outings with the Red Hats. Many joyous adventures were shared with her Red Hatters and she treasured the memories and comradery of this group! Arleen truly enjoyed her 'Soapies' and was an avid follower of the Royal family.
Mom loved spending time with her family and always looked forward to our special gatherings. 'Fashionably late' was her motto and the last to finish eating except when it came to dessert!
Her daughter, Shelley supported her through many transitions and was her loving, primary caregiver for many years.
The last few weeks of Mom's life were spent enjoying time with her brother Neil, playing the accordion and singing along. She so admired his musical talent. Her last birthday and Mother's Day were spent with her family, singing and enjoying a bite of her beautiful cake.
Arleen is survived by her husband Roy, daughter Shelley (Larry) of Nanaimo, brother Neil (Gail) of Port Alberni, step children Jamie and Renee, grandchildren Jordan and Luke, Kaitlyn and Shayla and 3 great grandchildren. The family would like to thank all the caregivers, seniors and medical professionals who enhanced the quality of Mom's life these last few years.
Cremation has taken place. A private family gathering will be held to honour her memory. Donations in her memory can be made to the Canadian Arthritis Society.