PETCH, Arlene (nee Rumsby) December 3, 1958 – August 28, 2020. Passed peacefully in her sleep. Survived by daughters Laura and Heather, son Andrew, grandsons Lucius and Benjamin, brother Rick, sister Cyndi, nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles, many friends, first husband John and former partner Cliff. Predeceased by brother Gary 2010, father Ted 2017 and mother Della 2019.
Arlene lived in Victoria all of her life until a recent move to Langley to be close to her grandchildren. She attended Braefoot Elementary, Cedar Hill and Reynolds Secondary High Schools. Raising her children was her greatest joy, along with spending time with her youngest grandson Ben (whom she ferried over to the mainland to help care for weekly while he was growing up). She worked as an optician, day care Mom, Times Colonist courier, caregiver for her mother and other various endeavors. Sewing was her biggest passion. She loved sharing her creations with the people she cared about. She also loved gardening, reading, crossword puzzles, camping and other crafting joys.
Arlene was kind and caring, and was always doing things for others, even if they were strangers. She was a smart, strong, stubborn and funny lady, who loved unconditionally, and always found the good in things. She was much loved and will be missed by all.
A celebration of life will be planned for a later date when we can all be together in the outdoors, which is where Arlene felt most at peace. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada (www.Kidney.ca), or another foundation of your choosing. View Tribute Book.
December 2nd, 2022
I met Arlene in the late 90s working at Gala Van catering doing a job at the Fleet Club at DND. She asked to borrow a smoke we chatted and became fast friends after that. We spent many hours walking the Gorge promenade and talking and laughing. We are both avid scrabble players and jig saw
puzzlers which we did together for many years. She was without a doubt the best scrabble player I ever met . I can remember working with her at the Gala Van kitchen one weekend with the radio cranked. The song by Lenny Kravitz " Come Fly Away" came out and we both broke out into dance mode, great times. I will always think about Arlene and her infectious fun side whenever I hear that song. Thanks Arlene for all the great fun and friendship we shared and until I see you again rest peacefully. XOXO Jean
December 2nd, 2022
I remember many good times with cousin Arlene as we grew up. Very sorry to hear of her passing. My condolences. Virginia Jacklin (1st cousin mother's side).
December 2nd, 2022
I knew Arlene for a short time when I worked with her at Wendy's and Total Delivery Systems. She was a very kind hearted friendly person who always had a great sense of humour. Condolences to her family.
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