Obituary of Aleta Arlene Gifford

Aleta Arlene Gifford, the daughter of Vernon and Vina (Bell) Sharp, was born July 8, 1931 in Newton, Iowa.  She graduated from Kellogg High School.

On June 3, 1951, Arlene was united in marriage with Clinton H. Gifford.  Arlene devoted her life to her husband and family.  She loved spending time with her family, as well as, attending sporting and school activities.  She enjoyed talking on the phone and could sometimes spend hours in conversation.  She was a longtime member of the Pleasant View United Methodist Church and served in many areas.  Arlene enjoyed gardening, canning and cooking.  Her family always looked forward to her homemade mac and cheese and apple butter.  She enjoyed watching sports on T.V. and was a St. Louis Cardinals, Iowa Hawkeye and Iowa State Cyclone fan.

Arlene died on Friday August 16, 2019 at MercyOne Newton Medical Center.  She was 88 years old.  Arlene was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Clinton Gifford, Sr.; her daughter, Debbie Breeden; and her sister, Colleen Benson.

Those left to honor Arlene’s life include her sons, Clinton H. Gifford, Jr., Kevin Gifford (Sandy Swallow), Curtis (Cheryl) Gifford; a son-in-law, Kevin Breeden; her grandchildren, Whitney Gifford, Kellie Jo Gifford (Josh Gardner), Corey (Leah) Gifford, Christopher Gifford, Courtney Gifford, Elizabeth (Brad) Rozendaal, Nathan Gifford and Zachary Gifford; her great grandchildren, Peyton, Lane, Haylee, Reagan Rozendaal, Allie and Katie Gifford and Ryleigh Jo Gardner; her step grandchildren, Ryan Funk (Rosie Lancaster) and Brandon (Nana) Funk and a step great grandson, Julian Funk.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at the Pence ~ Reese Funeral Home in Newton.  The family will greet friends from 5:00 until 7:00 pm Tuesday evening at the funeral home.  Memorials may be designated to the Pleasant View United Methodist Church and may be left at the funeral home.