Arlene (Ralph) Bartosek

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Arlene Bartosek (nee Ralph) at the age of 89 years. Arlene passed away peacefully in Lethbridge, AB at Extendicare Fairmont Park on February 16, 2024 with family by her side.

Arlene was born and raised in Raymond, AB where she also met her beloved husband of 61 years, Steve Bartosek. Steve and Arlene were married in 1953 and added two daughters, Pauline and Cindy, to complete their family. As a family, they moved to Lethbridge in 1964.

In her younger years, Arlene was an avid basketball player. She was part of the 1952 Raymond Helcat basketball Provincial championship team. Her tall frame earned her the nickname “Stretch” and it stuck with her throughout much of her life. Arlene loved to pull out her team photo and reminisce about the good ol’ days.

Upon completion of high school, Arlene graduated from comptometer school in Calgary. She worked at the Raymond Sugar Factory and Raymond Hardware Store. Arlene then went on to enjoy a prosperous career with the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) for 25-plus years including the roles of Loan Officer and Bank Teller.

Arlene had a distinct laugh and kind heart. Her home was a safe place to land for family and friends. When you walked through the doors, you knew you’d be loved and well-fed. She was known for her beef & barley soup, cabbage rolls, banana slush, and Christmas fruit cake.

Family is what mattered most to Arlene. She was a strong and supportive presence throughout all of our lives and played a large role in making memories for the family. Whether it was a more elaborate holiday celebration or a simple game of cards, she made it special.

After retiring, Arlene enjoyed her regular Friday afternoon hair appointments and bummin’ around town afterward. She was a poised and classy lady that loved bold lipstick and colourful blouses.

Arlene was always proud of her farming and ranching roots. This translated into a lifelong love of rodeo, classic country music, and John Wayne movies. Even when she started to decline in health, one of her favourite songs would always lift her spirits.

Arlene is survived by her daughter Pauline (Mo) Rusling and son-in-law Lesley Skretting. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Shauna (Craig) Johns, Jaclyn Hartwick, Steve Hartwick, Karlene (TJ) Quinton, Logan (Alexis) Skretting, Landon Skretting, and Clayson Skretting (Shaylin Hoyt). As well as six great grandchildren: Austin Hartwick, Conner Hartwick, Bryden Johns, Cassidy Johns, Eleanor Skretting, and Adlen Quinton. She was predeceased by her parents Fred and Clatie Ralph, husband Steve Bartosek, and daughter Cindy Skretting.

Arlene will be greatly missed by her family, extended family, and the many people she has touched over the years. The family would like to express our deepest gratitude to the staff at Extendicare Fairmont Park for the loving care given to Arlene.

In memory of Arlene Bartosek, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Alberta (alzheimer.ca/ab)

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 23 at 12:00 PM at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home, 703 13th Street North, Lethbridge. A private burial will take place at Temple Hill Cemetery in Raymond.

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