Obituary of Arlene Marion Yakimenko

February 10, 1941 – June 19, 2023

Born on February 10, 1941, in Prince Albert (PA), SK, Arlene spent her youth growing up on the Jordan homestead just outside PA with her four other siblings.  She joined the military in the late 1950’s which is when she met her future husband, Gerry.  Originally, she would not tell him her name, so he called her Sam. Gerry eventually won her over and they were married November 22, 1959, then the story began.

Arlene and Gerry started to grow their family while Gerry was still in the service, having Dean in 1960 while stationed in Clinton, ON, Donald in 1961 while in Barry, ON, a stay in Port Clyde, NS and having Daniel in 1965 while in Sidney, NS.  Feeling it was time to set down roots, Gerry took a job with the Department of Transportation (DOT) in Kenora, ON where Dennis was born in 1967.  Having four children and multiple pets, including Prince the dog, Peter rabbit and even a trash-can snake, Arlene had her hands full. 

In 1971, as the children grew, they decided to move to a larger centre with more education and sports options for the children, so Gerry transferred to the DOT office in Winnipeg.  Once the youngest child started school, Arlene decided to go back to work, starting with the United Food & Commercial Workers Union office in a data entry then into an office manager role before retiring from the workforce in the mid 1980’s.  Through the Winnipeg years the extended family included several dogs (Sebastian, Samantha, and Schultz), a couple cats (Sam & Samantha), and even a short stay by a Canada Goose living in the family Canoe in the backyard.

Arlene really enjoyed her family, from the camping trips and vacations to small gatherings with friends. As the children grew through their teen years, Arlene and Gerry spent many a night’s square dancing and even traveled the country to larger square dance jamborees, meeting new, and making long term friends along the way.

Once Gerry retired in 1994 and the kids had started their own lives and families, Arlene and Gerry decided to move the Calgary in 1996 where they continued to be involved in the community and enjoy the retirement years. Whether volunteering at the Forest Lawn senior centre or camping with the Good Sam’s, Arlene always cared for the people surrounding her and always lent a hand when needed. She always had a smile for you and was truly loved by those who knew her.

Predeceased by Gerry in 2016, Arlene’s health began to fade until her passing on June 19, 2023.  Let us remember Arlene for her good deeds, kindness to others and her ability to always help people regardless of her own situation. She certainly enriched the lives of those around her and will be remembered by all.  Rest well Arlene, re-unite with Gerry and Daniel, knowing we all love and will miss you dearly.

Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Arlene Yakimenko, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200