Arlene K. Babcock passed away peacefully April 22nd, surrounded by her family. Arlene was born February 27, 1940, and was the oldest of three sisters Mary, Elaine and Nancy and two brothers John and Chester, born to Chester and Agnes Footh of Parshall, ND.
Arlene lived for a few years in Parshall before moving to Portland, Oregon, in her early teens. On November 2, 1956, she married David Sutton and had five children, David Sutton Jr. of Gresham OR, Dennis and wife Leslie of Menifee, CA, Kathy and husband Jeff Sorensen of Bremerton WA, Robert and wife Debbie of Knappa, OR, and Douglas and wife Cheryl Sutton of Knappa, OR. Arlene was a Navy wife and moved throughout the West Coast. She was very involved in her children’s life, scouts, sports and field trips. Arlene and David later divorced.
On December 21st, 1979, Arlene married Richard Babcock of Centrailia, Washington. Arlene loved following Richard around while he played music in a small country western band. On February 25, 1981, Arlene gave birth to another daughter, Jamie Babcock, who later married Daniel Umbriaco of Knappa, Oregon.
Arlene was so excited to have another daughter to raise. Arlene and Richard moved to Astoria, then settled in Knappa, where they had a small farm where many family gatherings took place. Arlene spent many years working as a housekeeper at Clatsop Care Center.
Due to deteriorating health, they moved to Rainier, Oregon, where they became friends with many in the community.
Arlene is survived by all her siblings and children, along with twenty-nine grandchildren and thirty-three great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Arlene was a great mom, sister, grandma aunt and friend. She was loved and will be very missed. Till we see you again, love and memories will keep us going.
A family graveside service will be held at Ocean View Cemetery in Warrenton, OR, at 11 a.m. May 3rd, with a celebration of life to follow at the BPOE 180 (Elks Lodge) in Astoria, OR, from 12:30 to 5 p.m.
Arrangements are under the direction of Caldwell’s Luce-Layton Mortuary. An online guest book may be signed at www.caldwellsmortuary.com .