It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Arlena Evelyne Dodd.
Arlena was born in Vancouver, BC, to Earle and Kay (nee Johnston) Chase. Arlena attended Little Flower Academy, and had fond memories of her childhood in Kerrisdale and swimming lessons at Lumberman’s Arch Pool in Stanley Park. She also lived in Fort St. John, BC, London and Cambridge, England, and Vernon, BC, where she was involved with the Powerhouse Theatre, before settling in Victoria in 1973.
She also enjoyed acting Murder Mystery Weekends in Victoria and Seattle. Arlena studied theatre at U.B.C. in her younger years and went on to earn her degree in education at UVic while raising her boys. She taught at Royal Oak Middle School and Brentwood Elementary, where she had a hand in producing several musicals.
Among other things, upon retirement, Arlena volunteered at Saanich Volunteers, was a student teacher supervisor at UVic and sat on the Board of Directors for Abbeyfield St. Peter for 10 years. Arlena was an avid reader who enjoyed crosswords, writing, choir and tap dancing. She also enjoyed travelling; especially to her magical place, Maui. Arlena loved animals and had a special place in her heart for eagles, Shelties and cats.
Arlena will be lovingly remembered by her partner of 31 years, Denise Brochu; sons, Lindsay (Deb) Dodd and Andrew (Kat) Dodd; grandchildren, Michael and Alexis Dodd; and siblings, Dave (Colleen) Chase, Ginny (Claud, deceased) Thistle and Ken (Emily) Chase.
Flowers are gratefully declined. Arlena generously supported many charities. If desired, you may donate to a charity of your choice in her name. A Celebration of Life will be announced in the spring.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Heather McPherson
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Sheila Miller Sincere condolences to you Denise in the loss of your partner Arlena. I enjoyed working with her at both Royal Oak and Brentwood Schools. I’m sure she will be sorely missed by sons and grandchildren as well. May your memories be a source of comfort to you all. Sheila Miller
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Luanne Marchand I am so sorry for your loss, Denise. I remember Arlena as always positive and smiling. She was always full of energy and up for anything. I recall her involvement in Brentwood Musicals and remember her in my classroom supervising a student teacher. Even in that role she was nurturing and complimentary. She will be sorely missed.
Sending much love.
Luanne
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Karen L Adam Sending condolences to you, Denise, on the passing of your life partner. She was a gentle and kind soul, well loved by her students, and by all who knew her.
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Joyce Wone Joyce Wone wrote a sympathy message
“So sorry to hear of Arlena’s passing. She was a kind and gentle soul. She was the only teacher at Brentwood who did not put our son, Joe out in the hall for being naughty. Arlene was a favourite teacher to many. I remember having a staff room conversation with her about the after life and she strongly believed that there was one. I am sure her spirit is in a happy one. Hugs to you Denise.. Joyce Wone”
I only recently learned of Arlena’s passing and I felt compelled to pass on my condolences and memories of her. Ms. Dodd taught me at Brentwood Elementary, and directed the musical that I was very lucky to be a part of while I was there. While a student in her class, I think she recognized the struggle I faced as a very lost little girl before many others and was supportive in ways that I couldn’t fathom at that age, but grew to deeply appreciate as I got older. She gifted me her old electric piano so that I could have something to play at home. She encouraged me in choir and offered me a solo at a school concert to boost my confidence. And, in the fifth grade, she came to me one day to ask me to make a decision. I could be a part of the musical she was putting on that year – either as a stepsister, or as the title character. The choice was mine, and she would support me in whatever I chose. I ended up taking the role of Cinderella and she kept her word as she supported and guided me through the process every step of the way.
A few years later, at the age of 15, just after my father had passed and I had been featured in a local newspaper for having a story about him published, I received a card in the mail. It was from Ms. Dodd, who had not forgotten me, telling me how proud she was of me. I still have that card, and I will always treasure it.
Arlena Dodd was a bright light in the lives of so many and I feel truly grateful to have been able to be a part of her story and have her be such a huge part of mine. I think of her often, and will continue to honour her memory whenever I can.