Arlene Ruth Girton passed peacefully from this life the morning of July 5, 2022 after a gradual decline in health.
Arlene was born on June 23 ,1933 to Paul W and Bessie (Mathis) Falen in Dillon, west of Herington. She was the third of five children. Arlene graduated from Herington High School in 1951.
Arlene, like her siblings, helped her Mom in the local Peter Pan Ice Cream shop, which is now Braum’s. It was there that she met the love of her life, Russell.
They were married December 1, 1951 and celebrated 60 years of marriage before Russell’s death, December 12, 2011. Arlene was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her four daughters and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Granny & Great Granny. She knew just how to make each one feel extra special. She was an avid Royals fan and enjoyed bringing all of her grandchildren to Kauffman Stadium any chance she could.
Arlene & Russell owned and operated Russell L.P. Gas in Clyde, KS for over 25 years. They retired from the propane business and eventually found their perfect retirement community in Sun Lakes, AZ. She loved playing golf & entertaining friends and family. Health issues brought Russell & Arlene back to Moundridge, Kansas to live closer to family in 2011. Arlene never met a stranger and enjoyed visiting with the residents at Pine Village. In 2015, she was awarded Volunteer of the Year at Pine Village and in 2016, she was presented the award of Leading Age Volunteer of the Year. She continued to make her daily visits to “her people” until her health deteriorated. One of her favorite activities was putting puzzles together, finishing her last one just a few days before her death.
She was preceded in death by her parents, spouse, daughter Shari Tobyne and siblings Pauline Allen, Lois Miller, Delmar Falen and Joyce Rush. Survivors include three daughters, Vicki (Bruce) Roy, Clyde; Lori (Aaron) Begnoche, Moundridge; and Tina (Alex) Contreras, Trophy Club, TX. Ten grandchildren & 16 great-grandchildren.
Her life was a living example of one of her favorite Bible verses, Ephesians 4:32 – “And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ”.
Cremation is planned with a private family burial service at Ashton Cemetery, Hope.