FEHR, Arlene Anna
(nee Bekar)

January 7, 1934 - November 22, 2018

Passed away peacefully at Broadway Lodge in Vancouver, BC after a multi-year battle with Alzheimer’s. She was predeceased by her parents Rose and Clement Bekar, her brother Clem Bekar, and her sisters Clare and Angeline. She is survived by her husband of 60 years Abraham (Abe), children Helena (Timo) and Chris (Ann) and grandchildren Stasha, Conrad, Erik and Viktor, her three sisters (Rose Ann, Elma and Joan) and her brother (Elmer), plus many nieces and nephews. Arlene was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, the fourth child in a family of eight, and moved to Creston, BC with her family when she was 9 years old. After graduating from St Joseph High School in Nelson,Arlene attended Victoria Normal School (now the University of Victoria) and graduated as an elementary school teacher. She began her career in Lillooet, BC and then moved to Vanderhoof. This is where she met the love of her life, Abe. They married in July, 1958. Arlene taught grade 1 for eleven years before leaving the profession to have a family. She volunteered tirelessly throughout her life, through the Catholic Church,the Sisters of the Cenacle, and elsewhere. Her volunteering included teaching catechism classes, volunteering at her children’s preschool and elementary schools, and at the gift shop at Youville Residence. Arlene was for many years an excellent host to Abe’s business contacts, and to her children’s friends. Many of the latter fondly remember her welcoming smile – and abundant treats! Arlene was well loved, enjoyed travel, music, sewing and socializing with family and friends across Canada and in Germany, India and Mexico. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her family would like to thank the staff at Broadway Lodge for the excellent care Arlene received during the past 18 months. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Broadway Lodge’s Rooftop Garden Refurbishment Project or Music Program. A memorial mass will be held at St Mark’s Parish in Vancouver on December 18, 2018.