August 12, 1952 – March 1, 2022
It is with profound sadness that the family of Arlene Smolak advises of her sudden passing in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Born in Dryden, Ontario to parents George and Agnes Smolak, Arlene is survived by her brother Joseph (Christel) of Pinawa, MB, sisters Mary Buccini of Winnipeg, Jean (Louis) Richard of Calgary, AB, and Margaret (Russell) Booth of Hamilton, ON.
Arlene was predeceased by her parents George and Agnes and brother-in-law Frank Buccini.
Arlene was a graduate of UND (University of North Dakota) where she obtained a Degree in the Communication Services and Disorders Program and went on to a long and fulfilling career as a Speech Therapist with the Winnipeg and Fort Garry School Divisions.
Arlene will be greatly missed by her siblings, nephews, nieces, cousins, aunts, uncles, friends and the many acquaintances that she met throughout her career and life.
Friends and family are invited to share memories or condolences on Arlene’s memorial page by using the comment field below.
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I want to express my most heartfelt feelings to the extended and immediate family of my retired former Speech Pathologist on her passing. May you feel the devastation in the present, embrace the grief in the turbulent times ahead, and may your wounds heal as time passes.
I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Arlene for many years through the Winnipeg School Division. Her knowledge of communication techniques, devices and strategies greatly assisted my students throughout many years. She was a dedicated Speech Therapist who was often the last staff member to leave with the custodian at the end of long and busy day. Arlene was also a lovely person to those she encountered along her path and travels. Thank you Arlene for all you gave to so many.
Arlene was a wonderful supportive colleague who was always open to new ideas in the areas of speech therapy. It was obvious she loved working with children and delighted in the gains they made even the very small ones. Arlene worked with teachers and educational assistants alike so that they too, could have the skills to help the children. Despite physical issues and dreadful winters Arlene always arrived ready to work with her cart of goodies that she had purchased just for her “Children”. The world has lost a beautiful human being.
Thank you for your kind words.
I have such fond memories of Arlene! We worked together- decades ago – in Louis Riel SD. I was one of the Special Education teachers at the time and Arlene was our expert SLP! She embraced her role and the students with such professionalism, kindness and joy! Her wisdom and belief in others will always be remembered. Wishing you peace and comfort at this time…
My sincere condolences to the family on the loss of Arlene.
I was an Occupational Therapist who worked with Arlene in Winnipeg School Division, both at Oakenwald School for a short time, and at Grant Park School. She was a dedicated and upbeat person who wanted the best for the children and youth she worked with. It was always a pleasure to work with and share ideas with her.
After my retirement, I met Arlene again a few times while playing Irish music at Deer Lodge Centre. I was sad to hear that her physical status had deteriorated , but nonetheless she appreciated the music and the contact with me.
I originally met Arlene when I was 4 y ears old in 1982 . I met her again in 1990 where she worked with me . She was always kind and patient even during my rough times. She was dedicated to working with Special needs students. She will be deeply missed. Condolences to her family.
From former student Jeremy.
I worked with Arlene when we were both at the Child Guidance Clinic. She was kind warm and caring with her clients as well as her colleagues. She will be missed.
What a dedicated professional and advocate for the communicatively challenged children . I met Arlene when I worked at the hospital as a speech language pathologist and she was across the street at SMDI . We shared many cases . She always found a way to share a laugh no matter how tough the situation was.
I got to know Arlene as a parent and School Trustee in the former River East School Division. She was deeply committed to all students under her care and well respected by her co-workers at the Child Guidance Clinic. As a family she gave us the gift of communication and she would have been proud of the progress today.
She never complained and was so resilient in spite of her physical limitations.
Arlene was like “a fine piece of sterling silver” as our son expressed. Rest in pece Arlene for work well done.
Gail Scheer and Family
I worked with Arlene at Oakenwald School when I was a special needs T.A. in the S.N.A.P. program. She was so dedicated to the children & helped all of us do our jobs better. She had a great sense of humor & was fun to work with.
Arlene was a dedicated speech-language clinician who was deeply respected by teachers and clinical colleagues for her skills and hard work on behalf of children with autism. I am so saddened by her death.
I had the pleasure of working with Arlene over many years, as an Occupational Therapist. We shared so many ideas and plans, and a great deal of laughter! Arlene loved her students fiercely, and respected each child’s individuality. They were truly at the centre of her life.
A life well lived, in the service of others. Rest In Peace Arlene.
My thoughts and prrayers are with the mutual companions of the late Arlene.