Arlene Hamelin

We are saddened to announce the passing of our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and “Granny” to many, on Friday, February 9, 2018 at Selkirk General Hospital with family by her side.

Arlene was predeceased by husband Wade Hamelin August 4, 2016.  She is survived by daughters Sharron Potvin (Kevin) of St. Laurent MB. and Colleen Ahntholz (Jay) of Forrest, MB.; grandchildren Anthony (Jenna) Potvin, Ashley (Clinton) Schroeder, Chance Ducharme, Maxden Ducharme, Reid Ahntholz and Cade Ahntholz; great grandchildren Chloee, Myliee, Walker Potvin and soon to be Brantley Schroeder.

Arlene grew up in the RM of Headingley.  After marrying Wade, they lived in Fannystelle for a few years and returned to Headingley and resided there until their retirement.  Mom drove a school bus for St. James School Division and enjoyed all her “kids” and coworkers.  After retirement, they moved to their cabin at Johnson Beach at Oak Point MB. Wade and Arlene did spend some winter down in Yuma Arizona and Mexico enjoying old and new friends during the winter months.  After Wade’s passing, Arlene did some travelling going to Cuba with close friends.  She constantly had the beloved dog “Blue“ by her side.  In the summer of 2017, mom went to South Dakota and to Alberta on holiday road trips.  She also enjoyed the time her grandkids would spend with her at the lake in the summer and going to rodeos to watch them compete.  Mom was “Granny” to many at the beach and was also trusted with watching over other beach properties.  She was the “Beach Patrol”.   She had a very close circle and was very close with some people at Johnson Beach who she considered family.   Mom was always fun loving and loved by many for her spirit, gentle and compassionate way towards all people she met.  Never missing a beach gathering, she was a constant fixture there for the past 30 years.   She will be missed by many but not to be forgotten.

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks and gratitude to the following people who helped mom a lot since dads passing and were near and dear to her.  Derek Johnson, Tara Bergner, Graham and Jana Wood, Jean Arberry and Tammy Hagyard-Wiebe were integral people who have a special place with mom.  Thank you all for your care and support.

Keeping with her wishes and private nature, there will be no service at this time.  Cremation will take place and a beach party in her memory will be held at a later date.

If friends and family so wish, donations can be made to Selkirk and District General Hospital Box 5000, Selkirk, MB R1A 2M2.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  204-857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com