Arleen Walter Armstrong, 73, of Fletcher passed away at her residence. A native of Indianapolis, IN, she lived in Henderson County since 1979. She was a daughter of the late Charles Albert and Marie Schuble Walter, and her adoptive father, John Boukes.
She worked as a respiratory therapist for several years, but her real love was working as an artist in Arts and Crafts. She actively participated in local Arts and Crafts shows, developing many meaningful friendships with fellow crafters who she deeply loved and appreciated. She was a member of several WNC craftsmanís groups and guilds. She loved her animals, donating her time and money to charitable animal organizations. She will be dearly missed by her friends and family.
Survivors include a brother, Richard Boukes and his wife Marialice of Corona, CA; a sister, Ladonna Rea and her husband Tom of Bloomington, IN; and a nephew, Tristan Boukes and his wife Heidi of Redondo Beach, CA.
No service is planned. Inurnment will be at the Episcopal Church of the Holy Family in Mills River at a later date.
I just learned that Arelene passed away, which must have been only a few days after we met for lunch. I purchased lovely ponchos from her that she hand made, and she shared with me how she was feeling less anxious than she had all of her life. She was a creative and fun person, and I will miss her. Sincere Sympathy.
We are so sorry to hear of Arleen’s death. She was a patient of ours for many years and we all loved her sweet spirit and beautiful smile. She will be missed by many, including us…
I was just getting to know Arleen during knitting times at the Boarding House at Johnson Farm. She was an engaging & talented woman with smiles for everyone. She will be missed.
I have known Arleen for a little over a year, and it has been a pleasure. We shared our enjoyment of knitting and animals. She has recently become a member of the Heritage Weavers and Fiber Artists and jumped right in to the activities. We will miss her dearly.
Her smile and cheerful voice were enhanced by her glowing silver hair, and regal stature. We shared a love of animals, and I loved her sense of beauty in her craft work and art. I prey she is decorating the after life with art, pets, and beautiful things.
A true artist and friend. May you be at peace you will be missed
Lyda Family
I was sad and shocked to learn of the sudden passing of Arleen. As a fellow crafter she exuded encouragement, enthusiasm and a wealth of knowledge that was especially for a “newbie.” I also had the privilege of serving her in a local business. I will miss her smiling face and positive attitude.
Love,
Nettie Turpin
I met Arleen at the United Methodist Church craft fair and again at the November 8th Henderson County Crafters Association meeting. She was a wonderful artist. Her taltents and friendship will be missed. My condolences to her family.
Dear Arleen, you were such a bright light in our Henderson County Crafters group and you will TRULY be missed. We were so happy when you rejoined us at our November meeting. Your kind, sweet face and caring words always made those long shows bareable. We will miss you sweet lady!
I saw Arleen one day a year for the past several years at the annual juried crafts festival at First United Methodist Church, in Hendersonville NC. She was a lovely lady and such a joy to be around. I’m sure that those of you who knew her well join with me in acknowledging that the world will be poorer without her, but that we are richer for having encountered her along life’s way.