Obituary of Arlene Marie Orvis

Passed away peacefully at Innisfree House, Kitchener on Friday, July 5, 2024, at the age of 89.  Beloved wife of the late William “Bill” Orvis (2012).

Loving mother of Katherine (Fraser) Matheson and Nancy Orvis-Korn.  Cherished grandmother of Nathan (Riikka) Matheson, Victoria (Samih) Matheson, Ashlee Korn and Alexander (Talia) Korn. Will be forever missed by her great-grandchildren Sophee and Lukas. Dear sister of Sister Stephanie Rettinger, Bill (Catherine) Rettinger and Al (Helen) Rettinger.

Predeceased by her parents Cletus and Catharine (nee Morrison) Rettinger. Waiting for her in heaven, with open arms, her loving husband of 52 years, Bill Orvis.

Arlene was a longtime parishioner of St. Agnes RC Church. She taught grade one at St. Agnes School for most of her career and had many good friends and family there. She remembered every grade one student and spoke to them by name when she saw them. She connected with all of her “kids” and loved being instrumental in their future learning.

Mom was always up for an adventure, and never said “no” to something new. She loved to travel, with Dad and friends. Retirement was the time of their lives. Exploring the world, eager to see the places she found on her maps and keeping those memories with friends and family close to her heart. She will be sadly missed by many colleagues and travel companions.

Arlene was a strong believer of lifelong learning and took part in many seminars and groups to expand her own knowledge. She was a member of Ontario Teachers Federation for over 30 years, Probus Club of Kitchener Waterloo, Drayton Entertainment & Travel Group, Waterloo North Hydro Women’s group, The Catholic Women’s League, St. Agnes Parish Choir and WLU Alumni Association. Many members will remember her innate and sparkling curiosity.

Special Thanks to the staff and administration at Parkwood Mennonite Home, the Staff and Nurses and Doctors at Grand River Hospital Stroke wing, 5D North and to the loving staff at Innisfree House; Leeanne, Britany and Heather who were significant in Mom’s comfortable, burden-free passing.

Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., on Tuesday, July 16, 2024 from 6 – 8 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Agnes RC Church, 75 Bluevale St. N., Waterloo on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 11 a.m., with Father Rafal Tomon officiating. Interment to follow at Parkview Cemetery, Waterloo. A reception to follow burial.  

Condolences for the family and donations to Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario, Heart & Stroke Foundation or St. Agnes RC Church may be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com