Arlene Skain 3/16/1929 - 2/28/2010   Arlene Skain was born March 16, 1929, in West Union, Iowa. Arlene was raised in Exira, Iowa, and attended Exira High School, where she was a star on Exira's championship basketball team.   After graduating in 1946, Arlene attended cosmetology school and became a hairdresser in Des Moines, Iowa, where she met and married the love of her life, Richard Skain, in 1948. They were married for 61 years.  CONTINUED BELOW.

In 1954, with daughters Sandra and Susan in tow, Dick and Arlene left the Iowa snow behind and set out for a new home in Southern California. Dick taught school and after Nancy was born in 1958, Arlene attended Long Beach State College, where she earned her BS and teaching credential. 

She taught elementary school for 28 years. In 1994, they followed their three daughters north to Auburn, Calif., where they lived for their last 16 years. 

Arlene loved the 40 years she lived in Southern California and was happy with all of her wonderful new friends in Auburn. She especially enjoyed the many, many hours she spent with her friends playing bridge. She loved the 47 wonderful summers she spent with Dick and so many great friends and family members at their cabin in Donnelly, Idaho. She was a master bridge player and loved games and sports of all kinds. Arlene made the best pies ever, and we all have beautiful afghans that she made for us with such loving care. Above all else, she loved her family.

Arlene will be remembered for her kind and gentle manner, which made everyone feel welcome, and for her unwavering dedication to family. She will truly be missed by all who knew her. Arlene leaves us with so many wonderful memories that will enrich our lives forever.

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