Arlene J. Boese Clarke

Arlene J. Clarke passed away on March 23, 2010 in Puyallup, WA at the age of 94. Arlene was born on May 23, 1915 in Boring, OR to Fred and Leila (Dilley) Boese. Arlene lived most of her life in and around the Gresham area. During World War II, Arlene worked in the Oregon shipyards as a welder on troop transports. After the war, Arlene left the shipyards to manage a number of cafeterias for the Portland School District. Due to failing health, she recently relocated to Washington, allowing her to be near her son and family.

Arlene married Alvin W. Bennett in 1932, they enjoyed 36 years of marriage before his death in 1968. Arlene later remarried to Robert Clarke. They owned and operated Clarke Trucking in Portland, Oregon. For years Arlene and Bob pursued their hobby with antique cars. They traveled around the western United States showing their cars in auto shows and constantly meeting new friends.

Arlene was a past Worthy Matron and a 50-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star Chapter 117. One of her interests was going and having yard sales or visiting swap meets and buying treasures. She liked playing cards and bingo. She had been living in assisted living in Bonney Lake Washington for the past 2+ years, where she acquired many friends. She played bingo and penny poker every Wednesday and if she won 20 or 30 cents, she was as thrilled as if she had won $500.

Arlene is survived by her son, Lowell Bennett and his wife Kay of Enumclaw, WA; stepson, Tom Clarke of Portland, OR; sister, Maxine Thoreson, of Baker City, OR; brother, Ross Hutchison, of Portland, OR; 3 grandchildren, Kathleen, Michael, Kelly; 3 step-grandchildren, Carl, Chris, Valerie, Tracy; 4 great-grandchildren, Alicia, Travis, Laura, Michelle; step-great-granddaughter, Jillian; and 5 great-great grandchildren, Haley, Katelyn, Conner, Noah, Penny.

The Funeral Service is:

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

11:00 a.m.

Bateman Carroll Funeral Home

520 W. Powell Blvd. in Gresham, Oregon.

Private entombment will be at Riverview Abbey in Portland