 We are so sad to hear of Arlene‘s passing. We fondly remember a night out with Arlene and Cliff many years ago when Arlene was trying to decide whether or not to undertake law school and a career change.  She knew it would be a big task while a devoted mother too, but she was passionate about helping others and she thought a career in law was the best way to do that.  Her long and successful legal practice helped many people. 

Arlene was able to handle the difficult situations life presented her with courage, competence and grace. We will miss our friend Arlene. We send our deepest sympathy to Greg, Cara and the Lakin Family. 
Mark and Nancie Severs


Dear family of Arlene Lakin,
My brother in Fla.  sent me Arlene's obituary notice today and I was so profoundly saddened to read it.  My brothers and I would never have been able to negotiate the confusing world of guardianship of our sister, Mary Ellen Sweeney, without Arlene!  She was so knowledgeable and so willing to spend time with us.  We loved her sense of humor and her organized way of presenting information.  Her office made our job easier and we always knew what to expect next.  Arlene was truly one of a kind and we share your grief at her loss!
Sincerely, 
Meg Sweeney Hartnett


My husband, Jack, and I are sad for Arlene's children, family and friends like us.  I met her  in the 1970s when we both worked at Southeast Bank in the early days of our careers.  Later, we worked together with a few mutual clients, I as trust officer and she the lawyer. We once even spoke of going into business together to fill the needs of elders that bank trust departments could not.   There were also many non-profit activities we attended.  I know I am not alone in my admiration for Arlene's positive attitude, ethics and energy in all her life's endeavors.  I am proud to say she was my friend and I will miss her.

The attached photo was taken November 10, 2018 at my high school, Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart in Miami.  She, other friends and family attended a luncheon at which I was one of the honorees. It was a privilege that she came.  My friends and family enjoyed their all-too-brief time meeting her.

I have known Arlene for 38 years as I was her husband's secretary for 30 years.  I served with her on the Board for ten years and as Treasurer for FVDD.
I am heartbroken that her life has been cut so short. 
She was a wonderful person,  wife,  mother and friend.  She was a great attorney also. 
She will genuinely be missed by all who knew her.  
She will now be able to spend eternity with her husband, Clifford, whom she loved dearly.  
Cara and Gregory, I am sorry for the loss of your mother.  She loved you dearly. 

First, my heartfelt sympathies to Arlene’s children and extended family.  Arlene was a superwoman who could run the business of her law practice, always put the client first, found and progress a successful not-for-profit and do it all from a place of tikkun olam.  Then there was Arlene as a mother, wife and friend, a spectacular person to have in one’s life, no matter the relation.  I personally drew great inspiration from how Arlene dealt with adversity.  After Cliff died, it seemed she worked even harder to make FVDD more effective.  She was a happy face with a warm and loving disposition.  Cliff died three weeks before my Dad and as my Mom came out of the hardest part of her grieving process, I introduced Arlene to my Mom two months ago and they hit it off and were planning to get together.  I regret that those years of sure friendship are lost to them both.  I will miss Arlene.  I know that you know how fortunate you were to have two exceptional parents.  While they were very sadly taken from you way too early, I know that their special traits will live on in you.

Arlene helped me with my Dad’s and my legal wills.  I worked in the healthcare and worked with Arlene on so many things over the years.  Both our husbands had Parkinson’s and we compared how we handled  their journeys thru the years.  On Thursday morning she said she was going home early because she did not feel good.  She was sorry she might not be able to go to my company’s Holiday party that night.  I said go home take care of yourself.  Now we have lost her.  Please know how much I loved her and I am at a loss.  Linda Gilchrist 

My deepest sympathy to your family. Arlene was was a beautiful classy lady. A brilliant attorney.  Loving mother.  So sorry for your unexpected  loss. My prayers are with your family at this time 
       



                 Gail D'Andrea

OBITUARY

Arlene Suzanne Lakin

September 1, 1947 – December 6, 2018

Lakeside Memorial Park & Funeral Home

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