Obituary

With deep sadness, after a lengthy illness, we announce the peaceful passing of Arlene Soles, at home with her daughter Ali by her side. Born on a farm in Salem, Arlene dug into her farm chores and education with the same passion as doing ‘the jive’, going to matinees with the girls, and sneaking out with the boys at night. She loved it when the city relatives came to the farm on Sundays to laugh, eat and be joyous together. Her blue eyes always sparkled and danced with delight. Her curiosity and sense of adventure blossomed when she attended North Toronto C.I. for grade 12 and then to U of T to study Physical and Occupational Therapy.  Arlene loved her career as an OT, often referring to her 35 years at Riverdale Hospital as being ‘paid to play’. She offered care, compassion, knowledge and friendship to her patients and colleagues who were her lifelong friends. In her therapy she developed her own life-long, artistic interests; creative weavings on her enormous loom in the living room, bronze sculptures, stained glass lamps for friends and family, and whimsical paintings. Travel became an important part of Arlene’s life, especially her many six-month excursions to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Stimulated by the colourful, bustling markets, her days were filled with Spanish lessons, exploring the countryside, a deep dive into Mexican art and history, and volunteering at the local orphanage. In 2004 Arlene moved back to Elora only 2 km from her family farmhouse and cherished the serenity it offered. She continued OT in the community, braving the commute through winter roads. She adored her family and friends, who would often ‘visit for a weekend’ but stay for weeks. She would pick local wildflowers and greenery for their room. Her fridge was always full and she savoured the flavours and comforts of food. From brisket to pavlova she did it all, lovingly cooking for family and friends. Although an extraordinary cook and baker Arlene equally enjoyed indulging in a good hot dog while cheering on the Blue Jays.  She admired the interests of others and also cherished quiet moments losing herself in a good book and caring for her garden. As for less quiet moments she joyfully filled them with music, ranging from Itzak Perlman to Janis Joplin. Arlene was a fun, brave, adventurous, curious and kind person. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.  She was predeceased by her parents Morris and Marj AvRuskin, brother Stan, sisters-in-law Marilyn and Bernice, and former husband Bill. She will be deeply missed by her daughters Liane and Ali (Sorcha) and Brother Ted, extended family and friends.