Obituary of Arlene J. Michelson

Arlene J. Michelson, formerly of Eastwood, died on December 14, 2016 at Loretto Health and Rehab, Fahey Unit. Arlene was born in Syracuse, NY on May 23, 1930 to Albert Adolph and Florence (Drake) Michelson. She attended Eastwood High School and was hired before graduating by Syracuse University. Arlene worked for over forty years in the Syracuse University Film Library which lent 16mm films to schools and colleges throughout the state and beyond. She retired June 30, 1989. Arlene was very artistic and made hundreds of pen and watercolor paintings along with several oil paintings, and ceramic castings. One of her favorite works was her oil rendition of “Kookla and Ollie” of the 1950’s TV show “Kookla, Fran, and Ollie”. Arlene also encouraged young people in the arts, including her nephew Dave and great-nephew Chris, by gifting them with art supplies in their respective early teens. She co-created, with Joan White, the community group, “Joy Germs”, dedicated to bring joy to everyone regardless of their station or circumstances. Arlene did the artwork for it and participated in the activities including marching in parades in costume and attending events. She was also proud of the letters she received on White House stationary from Richard Nixon when he was Vice-President and then President thanking her for artworks she created sent him when he was in each office. She was quite fond of “Tricky Dick”. Arlene was also very active in the James Street United Methodist Church. She was a church school teacher and was also a much adored longtime leader for the Methodist Youth Fellowship. Many of the members of her youth group days remained in touch with Arlene until her passing. Arlene’s artistic talent carried over to her religious life when she was asked to design a stained glass window for the chapel at James United Methodist Church, which was still in the chapel when the church was sold earlier this year. Arlene was an avid SU sports fan and upon her retirement, was surprised with a huge framed montage of SU football photos autographed by Paul Pasqualoni and many of the team’s players wishing her a happy retirement. Arlene was also a diehard Yankee fan, and according to her, was a much better manager than any holding the position since the 60’s. Arlene was also an avid collector of stamps, stuffed animals, and dolls. Arlene was predeceased by her parents; brothers and sisters in law; Willis (Ruth) Michelson, and Charles (“Wanda”) Michelson. She is survived by nephews; David (Catherine) Michelson, Sodus, NY; Robert (MaryAnn) Michelson and grandnephew Christopher King, Liverpool, NY; Niece; Nancy (Joel Jenne) Michelson, daughter Heather (“Tony”) Colon, Berlin , MD and son Erik (Kendra) Gill of Roanoke, TX. She is also survived by 6 great-grandnephews and niece. The family would like to give a personnel thank you to Kenny Miguel for being Arlene’s “special angel” and friend for many, many years. Kenny, you have been there for her through thick and thin and she loved you deeply. She thought highly of you and was proud of the man you have become. God Bless You. We would also like to thank the staff of Loretto Fahey 4 for their tender care and support for Arlene, despite her constant tutoring in making beds and the precision of placing stuffed animals. Arlene was very fond of cats and allergic to flowers, she would have much preferred that rather than send flowers well-wishers might consider making a donation to the CNY SPCA, the Humane Association, or other animal care facility of their choice Calling hours will be 11am Wednesday, December 21st at Goddard, Crandall, and Shepardson Funeral Home with a service to follow at the funeral home at 12:30pm.