Obituary of Arlene May Schanaman

ARLENE SCHANAMAN Arlene May Schanaman, age 75, was welcomed into heaven on Friday, June 7th, 2013. She was born to Ella and Christ Whittmeyer in Lehr N. Dakota, and raised in the big sky country of Montana. She started working at an early age as a waitress and went on to retire from Sky Chef in Portland, OR, when her grandchildren arrived; however, she truly shined as a wife, mother and grandmother. Her husband of 49 years, dance partner, and true love, passed away in 2007. Over the past five years, in addition to spending time with her family and friends, she formed many close friends and enjoyed the amenities as a resident of the Knights of Pythias Retirement Center. Arlene is survived by her daughter Shelly James and husband, Peter James of Vancouver, and her daughter Samantha VanHandel and her husband David VanHandel of North Bend, WA. She had three grandchildren, Sam and Anna James, and Stefan VanHandel who brought great joy and fulfillment to her life, and her gift of love to them showed no bounds. Teaching them life's lessons, walking them home from kindergarten, sharing stories and giving them treats kept that twinkle in her eye. She also graciously welcomed into her heart her step grandchildren, Jessica and Peter Jr. Her only surviving sibling is her brother, Delmer Wittmyer of Hardin, Montana. Arlene enjoyed sharing a good meal, a Mariner's game, and Sunday services with friends. With airline benefits, Sam and Arlene traveled the globe making friends around the world. When their girls were young, they enjoyed camping and fishing trips. She was a no-nonsense lady who cherished sitting on the porch with people she loved. Arlene knew how to be thankful for her many blessings and to take care of what she had. She will be greatly missed and will always be in our hearts. Per Arlene's wishes, the immediate family will be holding a private service. Burial was private at the Washougal Memorial Cemetery. To send condolences or to sign the online guest book please visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com.