Obituary of Arlene Eleanor Christie

CHRISTIE: Arlene Eleanor (Traxler). Surrounded by her loving family and caregivers, Arlene Christie of Chatham passed away at home after a 2-year struggle with cancer on April 2, 2011. Arlene was a long-time volunteer for CNIB, Meals on Wheels and the Blindcrafters group. She was compassionate and kind, with a heart for animals and a passion and talent for stained glass and watercolours. Her creations became cherished gifts of love to family and friends.An excellent home manager, Arlene often worked with her husband, Jim, building, remodeling and decorating homes. She worked as a bookkeeper in Tilbury and together they owned and managed a bowling alley in MacGregor for 6 years. Arlene (Traxler) went to Tilbury High School and, earlier, a one-room school house in Comber near her grandfather’s farm on Gracie Sideroad. Arlene is predeceased by her parents Rita Traxler (nee Stratford) and Ralph Traxler (of Detroit).Arlene and Jim Christie (formerly of Windsor), this year celebrated their 58th Anniversary. She is survived by Jim; daughters Janis (Lee) Christie of Mexico and Andrea Leboeuf of Chatham, as well as three grandchildren: Nadine, Christy and Nicholas Leboeuf, and her son-in-law Tom. She will be fondly remembered by her brother-in-law Ken Christie and his wife Kay of Windsor, and dear friends Mike and Ev Sajtovich. We release her now with love and gratitude for all that she gave and all that she was.Family will receive friends at the Christie residence on Friday, April 8, 2011 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. where a memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. An interment will be held at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the OSPCA or the Salvation Army would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com