Arlene East Nielson

Arlene East Nielson returned to her Heavenly Father on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015. She was born to Clarence Howard East and Leone Dutson East on June 18, 1928. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Fred, her children Gaylen (Diane), Craig (Jackie), Lisa (Jeff) Lyman and Shauna (Wade) Nielson. Sisters Afton Nielson (Robert) Eldula Rawlinson, and Jolene Revelli (Jerry). Brother in law, Lenard Willden. Preceded in death by her parents, sister Betsy Willden, niece Jerelyn Lajun and granddaughter Heidi Nielson. They are the proud grandparents of 19 grandchildren and 50 great grandchildren. She and Fred were married in the Manti Temple on Dec. 1, 1947.

Arlene was the perfect example of wife, mother, homemaker and provider of charitable service. From a young age her children remember taking a dinner plate to an elderly neighbor or someone else she was concerned about prior to sitting down to dinner themselves most evenings. Raising her family in the small town of Oak City, she was known for her willingness to provide a meal or other service to anyone who had a need. She was such an excellent cook that her meals were delicious and always appreciated. She worked at the Millard School District high school lunch room for many years and had many responsibilities, but almost always that of making the bread and rolls. Grandchildren remember dropping in with their parents to say hi at the end of the afternoon and enjoying a delicious warm roll; it is a fond memory. When you sat at their humble kitchen table, the meal was always fit for a king, and she made everyone feel as if they were the most welcome guest.

She found no greater joy than when she was surrounded by her family. Holidays, Ward Day, 24th of July and many, many pleasant afternoons and evenings spent on the front porch, bring back memories that will never be forgotten. Working long days in their large and very plentiful garden with Fred was an annual summer project. This was followed by hours and hours of canning and preserving fruits and vegetables for winter; the bounty always shared with neighbors and family. She served an LDS service mission at the Member Locator Facility in American Fork, Utah with her husband, Fred Nielson.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 7, 2015 at the Oak City Ward Building at 11:00 am. Friends may call Friday evening from 6:00-8:00 pm and from 9:30-10:30 am prior to services. Burial in the Oak City Cemetery under the care of Olpin Stevens Funeral Home. Online condolences can be offered at www.olpinstevensfuneralhome.com.