Obituary of Arlene Dunnette

Arlene passed peacefully early Saturday morning, August 15, 2026.

Arlene was born on November 2, 1930 to parents Kenneth Golden Kelly and Orella Clara (McBrady) Kelly. Predeceased by husband Murray, son PJ, and her brothers Ron and Keith. Survived by her children Kelly and Lisa, her grandchildren; Paul, Andrew and Conor, her great-grandchildren; Jade, Jocelyn, Julianne, Anthany and Harley, sister in law Jan Kelly and her many nieces and nephews. 

Arlene grew up in Hamilton and attended Westdale Secondary School where she graduated cum laude and was valedictorian. Due to fiscal need she went straight to work until she met a handsome hockey player, Murray Dunnette.  They were married on September 11, 1954 and enjoyed a loving relationship for 69 years. Throughout her life Arlene was active in Maycourt, Zonta, Probus Waterloo, and Beta Sigma Phi sorority, where she was voted girl of the year. 

Arlene owned and operated Dunnette Jewellers in downtown Kitchener for over 30 years with her husband Murray. Murray and Arlene spent many happy winters in Delray Beach Florida, and many happy memories with friends and family at Westmount Golf and Country Club in KW. Arlene enjoyed playing golf and bridge in both locations. She was still playing bridge at 95 years old with the ladies at Westmount.

Arlene loved to host Sunday family dinners and special occasion dinners, some of her culinary classics include devilled eggs, baked beans, and potato casserole.

A celebration of Arlene’s life will be held in September. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Arlene’s memory can be made to Hospice Waterloo Region and can be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com