Pauline Elizabeth Moffat

Pauline Elizabeth Moffat of Traverse City, Michigan and Sun City, Arizona passed on to her higher level of spiritual existence at sunrise Thursday, September 19, 2019. This remarkable woman lived and loved in ways that truly inspired her family and those who knew her.

Like her mother, grandmother and a long line of strong women before her, Pauline was our family’s modern matriarch.

Born in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada to parents Norman and Mary, Pauline was a proud Scot so she knew how to stretch a dollar. “Waste not, want not” was the motto, including at the dinner table. She taught us all to think freely and to be skilled negotiators. Feminist, independent, principled. Warm and sweet yet fierce and strong. Joyful and grateful with a full laugh that always made others smile (which will continue for us when thinking of her). A great reader and storyteller who was proud of her kids and grandkids, who deeply loved her husband Rick and the life they shared, and for all in her family. She was a true trailblazer, helping show us the way for our own paths. As a lawyer, she advocated on behalf of families, especially for children. She was never known to reject a good chocolate and simply gave the very best hugs in the world.

She passed naturally and spiritually on her own terms surrounded by family while knowing she was loved. We thank and celebrate Pauline for everything she has done for all of us as well as for the life memories she made with us. She will be missed yet always stay close in our thoughts and hearts as her love remains everlasting.

She is survived by her husband Richard (Rick) Arbanella, her children Chris Kennedy, Lauren Kennedy, Lesley Kennedy and Heather Arbanella and her grandchildren Zoe Kennedy, Honor Durham, Plum Durham, Ezra Bourgoine and Violet Bourgoine as well as her brothers Norman (Norm) Moffat and Alan (Al) Moffat, her many sisters- and brothers-in-law, cherished extended family and dear friends.

Pauline’s family is grateful for the loving support and care assistance of both the Munson Hospice of Traverse City, Michigan and Heartland Hospice of St. Cloud, Minnesota, both of which greatly eased her transition.

Following her wishes, there will be no formal service held. Instead, in remembrance, there will be small local gatherings of friends and family in celebration of her when they can be scheduled. We encourage donations to any local hospice service for the vital role they give to families in time of need.