Arlene S. Widick

Arlene S. Widick was born on November 9, 1958, at Fort Benning, Georgia, to Eugene and Jeanette Wheeler. Shortly after Eugene's Army service, the family settled in Tacoma, Washington, where Arlene grew up and later graduated from Washington High School. After high school, she began her career as a Department of the Army civilian employee at Fort Lewis, working as a military pay specialist in the Finance Office. She also worked with her mother, Jeanette, managing weatherization programs and conducting inspections with the Bonneville Power Administration, and directed the weatherization program for Peninsula Light Company in Gig Harbor, Washington. Additionally, Arlene displayed her innate entrepreneurial talent by starting her own successful business as a Weatherization Inspector, building a reputation for her strong work ethic and dedication.
In 1988, Arlene met the love of her life, James, on a blind date, and from that moment on, they began a beautiful 37-year journey together. Their life together took them from Tacoma, Washington, to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Okinawa, Japan, Fort Polk, Louisiana, and finally back home to Tacoma.
Throughout her life, Arlene dedicated herself to her work in taxes, accounting, and bookkeeping, but her greatest joy always came from her family. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, enjoyed cross-stitching, fishing, and traveling in the RV with James.
Arlene will forever be loved and remembered by her devoted husband, James; her children, Andy, Jeff, Randy, Chris, and Cassie; and her nine precious grandchildren who filled her heart with pride and joy. She is also survived by her loving mother, Jeanette, and her brothers, Jim and Mark. The many friends and loved ones whose lives she touched will deeply miss Arlene's warmth, humor, and kindness.