Obituary of Arlene A. Crabtree

“I am fortunate to be here this long”

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our cherished mother friend and sister, Arlene A. Crabtree, who soared to join the angels on June 5th, 2024.

Arlene, aged 80, drew her last breath surrounded by love, with her daughters tenderly by her side at Waldo County General in Belfast, Maine. Born on November 24th, 1943, in her beloved Hope, Maine, to Harriet Hall and Forrest Linscott, Arlene was the youngest of five sisters. She attended Hope School and remained a proud resident of her hometown throughout her life's journey.

Married at a youthful 17, Arlene embraced the joys and challenges of motherhood, raising six children. After several years in Eagle Lake, where she nurtured her eldest children, Arlene returned to Hope, where she took the helm of her mother's household. Her industrious spirit saw her through various roles, from blueberry raking and fish packing to establishing her own cleaning business and ultimately becoming a compassionate Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Renowned for her prowess in blueberry raking, Arlene could clear a row with unmatched speed, earning admiration throughout the mid-coast region.

A lover of music, laughter, and dance, Arlene's vibrant and humorous nature endeared her to all who knew her. With an extensive repertoire of, mostly inappropriate jokes, she could effortlessly bring smiles to faces, her own radiant grin lighting up any room. Her passion for flower gardening brought her immense joy, and she delighted in sharing her botanical haven with visitors.

A whirlwind of energy, Arlene found joy in every moment, whether embarking on bargain-hunting expeditions with her daughters and sister Annette, relishing Bingo nights with her dear sister Marion, or perfecting her renowned pies, crafted with love and precision. Her baking prowess, particularly her exquisite pie crusts, was legendary, a true expression of her affection for her loved ones. Her zany character made her unforgettable.

In her eternal rest, Arlene is reunited with her beloved eldest children, John "Emmet" Crabtree Jr., and Marie Anne Crabtree, as well as her cherished sisters Ruby Bates, Marion Merrifield, and Joyce Linscott. She is survived by her sister Annette Porter of Rockport, Maine, and her devoted daughters Angela Crabtree of South Portland, Deborah Crabtree of Belmont, Sandra Crabtree of Lincolnville, and Valerie Chapman of West Gardiner. Arlene leaves behind a legacy of love, embodied by her grandchildren Dylan, Jesse, Christine, Myra, Jack, Garrett, and numerous great-grandchildren.

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention that she leaves behind her heart and devoted companion, Emma the dog.

Special gratitude is extended to her daughter Deborah and granddaughter Myra for their exceptional care during Arlene's final months. We are also grateful for the attentive and loving care provided by the nurses and doctors at Waldo General Hospital and Gentiva Hospice Services.

Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Arlene are invited to join in honoring her memory at Hope Grove Cemetery on June 12th, 2024, at 11 a.m. As we gather to reminisce, share stories, and celebrate the remarkable life of our beloved mother Arlene.  Memories and condolences may be shared on her tribute wall.