Arlene M. (Doolittle) Obren

Arlene M. Obren, age 80 of Goshen, Indiana, passed away at Eastlake Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Saturday, June 3, 2023.  Arlene was born June 5, 1942, in South Bend, Indiana to the late Gerald R. and Evelyn C. (Schultz) Doolittle.  At the age of 6, she and her family moved to Texas.  On April 26, 1968, she married Andrew Obren in Mishawaka and they later moved to Goshen.  They recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary.

Surviving is her husband Andrew “Andy” Obren of Goshen, along with her sisters, Barbara (Steve) Adair of Bridgeport, Texas , Margaret (Rick) Housel of Washington, her sister-in-law Marcie Doolittle of LaMarqe, Texas, and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.  Her sister Sara Jane DeClair and her brother Robert “Bob” Doolittle preceded her in death.

Visitation will be held from 4-7pm Thursday, June 8, 2023, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home (formerly Goethals and Wells) in Mishawaka.  Funeral services will be held at noon on Friday, June 9, 2023, at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home with interment to follow in Olive East Cemetery, Elkhart.

Arlene will be remembered for dedication, artistic talents, and love for exploration and creativity. She was employed with the quality control division in the RV industry for over 46 years, ensuring that every RV that rolled off the production line met the highest standards of excellence. She also loved the Lord, and faithfully attended Elkhart Faith United Methodist Church for several years.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Arlene had a profound love for the arts. Her talent as an artist flourished through her passion for painting, creating stunning works that captured the beauty of the landscapes around her. She also found joy in playing the organ and dulcimer, showcasing her musical talents. Arlene also enjoyed traveling across the United States embarking on countless adventures, discovering hidden gems, and embracing the diversity and grandeur of this great nation. She eagerly captured the breathtaking landscapes through the lens of her camera, as photography was yet another medium through which she expressed her artistic vision. Her mastery of cooking and baking brought joy to both family and friends, as she loved to share her delicious dishes with them. Arlene also loved the old West and enjoyed watching westerns and PBR Bull riding on TV.

In her memory, donations may be given to the American Cancer Society. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Arlene’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.