Arlene Marie Berkhout

Don't cry because its over, smile because it happened

Obituary

Arlene Berkhout lived a life guided by a few simple principles: family comes first, friends are family too, dessert before dinner is never a bad idea, and dogs deserve to be spoiled.
Arlene passed away on May 17, 2026, at the age of 80, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, strong friendships, and enough happy memories to keep people smiling for years to come.
She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Melanie Scallion and Jennifer Fraser; her sons-in-law, Andrew Scallion and Sean Fraser; her adored grandchildren, Charlie Scallion and Frankie Scallion; and her favourite four- legged companion, Murphy, who undoubtedly believed he was the favourite child.
Arlene was a loving mother, sister, aunt, and friend whose greatest talent was making people feel welcome, cared for, and important. She never met a stranger she couldn’t turn into a friend, and she worked tirelessly to maintain the connections that mattered most to her. Whether it was a phone call, a visit, a coffee date, or simply checking in, she made sure the people she loved knew they were loved.
She had a gift for bringing people together and firmly believed that most of life’s problems could be solved over coffee, preferably with something sweet on the side. In fact, if there was a Tim’s nearby, chances were good Arlene had already claimed her favourite table and convinced some friends to join her.
Arlene loved being outdoors and was happiest when she was walking, exercising, soaking up fresh air, and enjoying nature. She believed in staying active, staying connected, and staying curious about the world around her. She also believed that the greatest meal was the one she just enjoyed, a laugh should never be wasted, and there was always room for dessert, especially before dinner.
Her favourite things in life were food, family, friends, and Murphy—and not necessarily in that order, depending on the day. 
Arlene’s kindness touched countless lives. She had a generous heart, a caring spirit, and a remarkable ability to make people feel better simply by being herself. She showed up for people, celebrated their successes, helped them through difficult times, and made life a little brighter wherever she went. 
While her family and friends are heartbroken to say goodbye, they take comfort in knowing that Arlene would probably prefer they spend their time together walking outside, enjoying good food, ordering dessert, and laughing about the many wonderful moments they shared with her. 
The world feels a little less warm without her in it, but her love, humour, and spirit will continue to live on in the people who were lucky enough to know her. 
Raise a coffee, enjoy something sweet, take a walk outside, hug your family, spoil your dog, and think of Arlene.

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June 23, 2026

A beautiful person. We had great conversations of family , children and life during her relaxing foot care days. An honour to know her and learn from her . Loved the twinkle in her eyes, so full of life.
Rest in Peace, Arlene

Margaret Dahl

June 22, 2026

What a beautiful person Arlene was, and how greatly she’ll be missed. Our families have been dear friends for literally decades, and I will always remember Arlene with fondness and love. She was so kind, gentle and giving, and my mom counted her as her longest and dearest friend. Now that they’ve both gone home to be with God, I’m sure they’re hanging out together again surrounded by love in heaven and laughing over coffee and dessert! Life very well-lived. Rest in peace, beautiful lady.

The Andrey's

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Arlene Berkhout

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