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Arlene Besecker Obituary
Arlene was born and raised in Dallas, where she resided most of her life. She was a daughter of Robert and Ellen Casterline, Dallas.
A 1988 graduate of Bishop O'Reilly, Arlene received her Bachelor of Science in elementary education from West Chester University. She was employed as an elementary teacher at Coopertown Elementary for two years before moving back to her hometown of Dallas, where she was a teacher at Dallas Elementary for 18 years.
Family was the most important thing to Arlene, and her children were her everything. She was all about making memories with her family. Arlene had a zest for life and, despite her own illness, was always there to help anyone in need. It was never about how she was doing; it was about how you were doing. Arlene taught so many of us how to be better people by the strength, determination and grace with which she lived.
Mrs. Besecker's passion for teaching was evident to everyone that knew her. She beamed with pride whenever she spoke of her "Besecker Bees." Her legacy lives on through all of the students she taught.
Arlene was welcomed to heaven by her father, Bob; her niece, Cecilia Besecker; and her cousin, Michael Zumbo.
Surviving are her devoted and loving husband and soul mate of 17 years, Ray; and her loving children, Miranda, Kyle and Jacob. She was a beloved daughter to Ellen Casterline, Dallas; loving sissy to Christina Casterline and her fiancee, Chet Novack, Dickson City; Robert Casterline and his wife, Lisa, Bluffton, South Carolina. Also surviving are her loving mother-in-law and father-in-law, Bob and Peg Besecker, Dallas; her devoted brother-in-law, Rob, and his wife, Terri, Dallas; her loving sisters-in-law, Joanne Nelligan and her husband, Jim, Dallas, and Jennifer Rhoads and her husband, Chad, Fredericksburg, Pennsylvania. She was a cherished aunt to Luke Novack; Brogan and Brinley Casterline; Pat, Courtney, Andy Besecker; Rachael and Ryan Nelligan; Tyler Weaver and James Rhoads. She is also survived by her loving godparents, Janice and Peter Mattioli, Trucksville; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
The Besecker family thanks everyone that has supported them throughout the years. They say it takes a village to raise a child. Well, it takes a village to fight this dreaded disease, and we thank you all for being that village for us. Your kindnesses will never be forgotten.
A celebration of Arlene's life will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday in Gate of Heaven Church, 40 Machell Ave., Dallas. The Rev. Daniel A. Toomey will officiate. Friends may call 4 to 7 p.m. Monday at the Harold C. Snowdon Funeral Home Inc., 140 N. Main St., Shavertown. Private interment will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Arlene's daughter Miranda's Relay For Life team "Arlene's Angels" at www.relayforlife.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Arlene Besecker
Sponsored by Dawn, Anna & Charles Giacometti.
Beth Brawley
April 20, 2023
Love you my friend. Miss you every day. Our friendship will forever be close to my heart.
Tom
November 1, 2021
Ms Casterline was a teacher of mine at Coopertown Elementary in the second grade when she first came to that school (I think 1992). I believe the messages here about how warm she was are totally genuine because I'll never forget how she made me feel better when I needed it, and I don't think she was even trying. I was really sad to find this page and learn she had passed so young. You were awesome Ms Casterline and my only crush on a teacher
Beth Brawley
April 21, 2021
I still think of Arlene multiple times daily. She could never be forgotten because she was a ray of sunshine and brought love and laughter to everyone she ever met. She was an amazing and dedicated friend who was there for me always. Her love of adventure was amazing! Her optimism and outlook on life even when facing tough times made those around her appreciate life even more. Arlene I love you and miss you and will never forget the joy you brought into my life. Until we meet again
June 28, 2014
So sorry for your loss.
Mac B
May 8, 2014
To all who knew and loved Arlene, my deepest sympathy goes to you. We look forward to the time when we can see our loved ones again (John 11:39-44)
Anon Anon
May 2, 2014
Mrs. Besecker was my teacher when I was in 4th grade a few years ago, she was honestly my favorite teacher that year she was always fun and upbeat, Sorry for your great loss.
liz lynch
May 2, 2014
My son Thomas had Mrs Besecker in 2nd grade. 2002. She was already struggling with cancer then and miss quite a big of school that year. None the less, my son loved her.How proud you should be of her great spirit. I admire her determination.
May 1, 2014
Our sincere condolences to Ellen, Ray Miranda, the boys and Chrissie and the entire family who will suffer the loss of that vibrant young woman. she touched so may lives in the short time God gave her. Though it has been a few years we will never forget the kindness that was always extended to us from your family and to Julia. Arlene and Miranda and the entire family always made us welcome. May God give you comfort at this very difficult time. Ellen my condolences to you on the passing of Bob.
With warmest regards,
Donna and Joe Thomas
April 30, 2014
Words could never even begin to come close to express my sorrow at this time. Arlene was like a sister to me and was the most inspiring, loving, fun and caring person I have ever met. She approached every obstacle with vigor and a positive attitude. She always wanted to know how you were because something as small as "a little old brain cancer" was going to stop her. Ray, Miranda, Kyle, Jacob, Mrs. Casterline, Chrissy and Bobby I will cherish all the moments Arlene and I shared. She will be missed every day for the rest of my life. I pray for you all and hope you can find peace. Much love.
Beth
Emma Carr
April 30, 2014
Arlene was a wonderfully warm person. I did not get to see her often, as I live rather far away, but I looked forward to it each and every time. I have so many happy memories from staying over, and going shopping at king of prussia mall. I hear stories about her that my mom tells, and in each one, Arlene brings an element of humor and light. And she did the same for me. Through being such a warm and bright person, Arlene's light shined through anything that may have been worrying her. She exuded love and happiness. She always enveloped you in her great sense of humor. It was at her house that I first ate kiwi,shrimp and melon salad. I didn't even know you could put vinegrette and melon together and it was wonderful. I will miss you Arlene, but your kind and humorous heart lives on forever.
Aidan Carr
April 30, 2014
Dear Kyle and Jacob,
My condolences to you, your sister and your dad. Your mom and my mom have been friends for a long time but I was only allowed to stay up late and hang out with the grown ups a few times, but those times I was with your mom I was happy. My mom would always talk about how great your mom was and how fun your mom was to be around. I remember about two years ago I was at your house with my family. We had played on your porch chanting words in front of the fire. We also had gotten glow sticks and we performed a dance in front of our moms. I remember how much your mom laughed and how funny she thought you two were. Your mom will forever be missed.
Maureen Carr
April 30, 2014
West Chester...summer of 1992...Arlene and I were instant friends. Arlene had that way about her: genuine, open, fun. Summer jobs, boyfriends, REAL jobs, laughing, working, sharing teaching ideas, me always in awe of how amazing she was at that...fiances, wedding parties, laughing, husbands, babies, laughing and sometimes crying at how much we loved them and how wonderful and hard it was all at once. Arlene, my dear, beautiful, wonderful amazing instant friend never complained about her illness and always looked for a way to find the silver lining, even if she had to turn the darn cloud inside out or throw some glitter at it. Arlene was a treasure of a friend, a devoted wife and amazing mom and she will be missed so very very much.
M.T.
April 29, 2014
Thoughts and prayers to you and your family. My son had Mrs. Besecker for fourth grade and she was and will always be right up there at the top of the list as a favorite teacher. As a parent, I realized how special she was on "back to school' night, when she gave us all her home and cell number. Not many teachers would do that and tell you to call whenever you needed to. (but on a lighter note, she said "don't put it on speed dial!"!!)….I'm so glad to have gotten to to know her and she will surely be missed. May peace be known to your family in time with the support of family and friends. God bless...
Kimberley Hall Kindler
April 29, 2014
Ray - My most genuine and deepest sympathies to you and to your children. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Emily Prater
April 29, 2014
Twelve years later, I still refer to Mrs. Besecker as my favorite teacher. I was truly blessed to be one of her students, and I am thankful to have known such a strong and inspiring woman! Love and prayers.
Bruce Weaver
April 29, 2014
Even though I've spoken with you via phone and visited you yesterday - I'm compelled to write you a note Ray. Arlene was wonderful and complemented you perfectly. I still can't find all the words I want to express... May the Good Lord continue to welcome her as He stands by and comforts you and your family in the days to come. Love ya man.
Paul and Michele Clemm
April 29, 2014
Ray and family, we are so sorry for your loss. We knew Ray and Arlene at their beginning and remember how amazing she was back then. We are lucky to have known her. Wish we had the chance to have known her more. Our deepest sympathies. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Brenda Sickler
April 29, 2014
So sorry for your loss Ray. May God be with you and your family at this difficult time.
Memories.
April 29, 2014
Ray, I have no words to say that can ever express how I feel.I love you all.Irene
Dale Morris
April 29, 2014
Ray & Family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Marc Stella
April 29, 2014
Ray,
I am so sorry for the loss to you and your family. My thoughts are with you and your children at this difficult time.
Sue Valatka-Collins
April 29, 2014
To the Casterline and Besecker families...
Two of my sons were blessed to have Arlene as a teacher and they adored her! She was truly a wonderful asset to the DES family. Rest assured that you now have a special guardian angel watching over you. May you find comfort in the wonderful memories that you have of Arlene.
April 29, 2014
Dear Ray, Mrs Casterline and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. No words can make your sorrow easier but rest assured you are in our prayers and Arlene is now in the arms of the heavenly angels where she will still be working for all of us. She will never be forgotten and neither will we forget you. Love and prayers, Ken and Sophia Novack
Dave
April 28, 2014
Arlene was an amazing beacon for so many reasons and had an incredible way of making everyone feel like they were part of the family! She could light up any room with her smile, a sarcastic joke to make everyone comfortable or just a good friend and listener over a glass of wine when anyone needed one. Ray, Miranda, Jacob & Kyle, Ellen, Bobby, Lisa and Chrissy, no words are good enough- just know you are all in so many people's thoughts and prayers and try to find comfort through that.
Monica Besecker
April 28, 2014
My condolences to Ray and family on your loss. Wish I could have accompanied Dave. My prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.
Lee Ann Misson-Coates
April 28, 2014
Ray and family, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Sean Kerpovich
April 28, 2014
To the Besecker & Casterline family. I had the honor of working Arlene many years ago in Shavertown. I will always remember her great smile and personality. My deepest sympathy to your families.
P
April 28, 2014
She was a amazing woman who left a life long impact in just the short time I knew her (as Miss Casterline) - I was a student of hers -1st grade at Coopertown - My parents had a very "independent" lifestyle. Ms. Casterline noticed and made it clear she cared. She kept snacks in her desk drawer because on a daily basis I was sent to school without snacks for snack time or lunch. At that time she had no idea that I would NEVER forget her kindness and I likely showed very little thanks. She did it because she was a kind hearted woman who went above and beyond her call of duty as a teacher. I wish I had a chance to thank her for teaching me so many lessons, beyond reading and math (however I do also remember learning to read in the bean bag nook in the corner of her class). My most sincere condolences to her family and friends - I feel honored to have known her.
Kristin Connolly
April 28, 2014
Can't express how sorry we r for your loss. My daughter adored Mrs besecker and loved to help out in her classroom. Never did I see her not smile not matter what she was going through. Prayers your way from Connolly family.
Amy Allardyce
April 28, 2014
To all that loved Arlene my family and I send our deepest sympathy. I knew Arlene from BOR Gate of Heaven, and working together as kids. She was a sweet person who was born to teach. Rest assured she is teaching the angels!
Gerry Mihalick
April 28, 2014
I am so very sorry for your loss Ray. The Mihalicks are praying for you at this difficult time
April 28, 2014
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
The Kosco Family
Audrey Hodle
April 28, 2014
Ray Danny and I are so sorry for your loss. Prayers are being sent to you and your family.
Lynn, Paua, and Caroline Sheehan
April 28, 2014
To the whole Besecker family, I wish to express my families sympathies.
melissa harris
April 28, 2014
Im sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful teacher. I wish you guys hope. I will always miss her
jennifer scales
April 28, 2014
Arlene I met you when we were very young. Your dad and my dad being best friends. I wish I knew you better. You will be greatly missed.
JILLIAN,Anthony,Christian, Alexis MARTIN
April 28, 2014
For the kindest, sweetest, most giving teacher we have ever known.
Jillian,Anthony,Christian,Alexis MARTIN
April 28, 2014
To the whole Besecker family i would like to know she was the kindest, sweetest, most giving teacher we have ever known. Her support and smile could make anyone's day brighter. She helped my sons and daughter, I will be forever grateful for how great of an impact she had on my children. Rest in peace Mrs. Besecker. You may be gone but will be greatly missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. God bless.
Kristine Nocito
April 28, 2014
Ray and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I feel lucky to have had the chance to have spent some time with Arlene. In the few times I did I could see that she really was a special person. I feel even luckier that my son got to experience her as a teacher. She had a gift for teaching and will be missed in so many ways.
Zahi and Pamela Nijmeh
April 28, 2014
We.will miss you.
Zahi and Pamela Nijmeh
April 28, 2014
Dearest Besecker Family,
We will never forger Arlene. It was an honor and privelage to know and love her. Arlene was an Angel and earth and now she is home in heaven. We are proud to be her neighbor,and her friend.
Much love,
Zahi, Pamela,Julia,Tamara, and Omar Nijmeh
Christy Calkins
April 28, 2014
Seldom are so many lives effected by one death. Arlene will be missed by so many. Very sorry for your pain and loss.
Sharon Ward
April 28, 2014
Ray and family, my sincere condolences, I'm truely sorry for your loss. I pray you receive the strength and more strength that you'll need to get through this time of unnecessary grief. Pls look for guidance from your Mom and Dad which are the most wonderful parents and people in the world! Love with blessing, Sharon Ward (Bill and Naomi Wards) Daughter.
Denise Rittinger
April 27, 2014
Ray, my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your children. Know that your are in my thoughts and prayers.
Harry Zweier
April 27, 2014
My deepest condolences at your loss. Arlene was a light in the world and she left many little lights that carry on, especially her own beautiful children. My thoughts are with you all.
Jamie Maniskas-Sorbelli
April 27, 2014
Ray & Family, so saddened to hear about Arlene's passing. Our prayers are offered to help ease your sadness. All our Love, Jamie & Family
Glendon and Erin Cook
April 27, 2014
Please accept our deepest condolences at the loss of such a wonderful woman. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Loren Williams
April 27, 2014
My thoughts and prayers to both the Casterline and Besecker families. I will take some to time to enjoy fond memories of Arlene!
Brian Sutton
April 27, 2014
Ray and children, please accept our deepest condolences. Arlene's smile could light up a room!! She will be deeply missed by all that knew her!
Thoughts and prayers to your entire family.
Jen Adams
April 27, 2014
Take pride in knowing what an impact Your wife,your Mom and your daughter had on so many people.I will always cherish the memories of the good times Arlene, Chrissy and I had together, She will be greatly missed..
Daly-Anne & Julianna Morano
April 27, 2014
To all who loved her, our sincere condolences. I went to school with Arlene, was in Girl Scouts with her and worked with her at McDonald's when we were in high school. She was always the light in the room! Arlene then taught my daughter for the first quarter of 4th grade in 2011 until we moved to VA. We are so very sorry she has departed so soon. She will never be forgotten by anyone who had the PRIVILEGE of knowing her. Rest in peace beautiful friend.
H.& Justus Shultz
April 27, 2014
To the Besecker Family,
May the love and support of friends and family carry you through your grief. She was the kindest, sweetest, most giving teacher we have ever known. Her support and smile could make anyone's day brighter. She helped my grandson through one of the toughest times in his life and he and I will be forever grateful. Rest in peace Mrs. Besecker. You may be gone but will be greatly missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. God bless.
Linda Manganello
April 27, 2014
Dearest Ray and famiy, Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Marianne McKinley
April 27, 2014
The pleasure was mine to have Arlene as a close friend since our daughters were toddlers. We spent time together in Kingston as neighbors and continued to make memories when Arlene and family moved to Dallas. It was very important to Arlene to include her children in everything we did. She always had a plan...whether it was a day trip to Philly for shopping, lunch at a favorite restaurant or simply hanging out around the house while our children played together. A smile always on her face and a real "shining light" in my life. My children and I will forever cherish the "love" & "memories" that we made with our AWESOME ARLENE. PEACE & LOVE
Dave Koziarski
April 27, 2014
Ray... I was so saddened to hear of Arlene's passing. I know that words seem to have little meaning at this time but know that so many around you care, and are there for you and your family. I will keep you and your children in my thoughts and prayers... I am very sorry for your incredible loss.
Dave (and Family)
Josephine Johnson
April 26, 2014
Ray please accept my deepest Condolences to you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss. Josie Johnson-Fox 11-7 shift commonwealth hospice of WB, St Lukes Villa.
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