Arlene C. Lee

Arlene Lee, age 95, long time resident of Moorhead, MN, died Monday May 18th, 2020 in her home at Touchmark, Fargo, ND, of natural causes surrounded by her family.

Arlene Charlotte Erickson was born September 3, 1924 to Elmer and Nettie Erickson. She grew up on the family farm near Rollag, MN and attended country school there. She graduated from Barnesville High School and attended Moorhead State Teachers College, after which she taught at rural Clay County schools for four years.

She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Thomas L. Lee, on June 21, 1947. They made their home in Moorhead for 50 years. She managed the Credit Department at Montgomery Ward Order Office from 1947 to 1954, and then became a “stay at home Mom” for their two children.

They moved to their home on Big Cormorant Lake in 1977. They enjoyed traveling to many interesting places and wintering in Port Aransas, TX. In 1995 they moved back to Moorhead where they resided until Tom’s death in 2015. She then moved to Touchmark, Fargo, ND, where she made many new friends and enjoyed the many activities.

Arlene was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church and Beta Chi Sorority Alum Group. She was a former member of PEO, Prosequi Study Club and The Lincoln Mothers Singers.

Arlene is survived by her two children, Barb Simonson, Minnetonka, MN; Dick (Carol) Lee, Detroit Lakes, MN; four Grandsons, of whom she was especially proud — Tim (Jessica) Simonson, Plattsmouth, NE; Mike (Heather) Simonson, Escondido, CA; Brian Lee, Moorhead, MN; John Lee (Kelsey Erickson- fiancée), Moorhead, MN; four Great Grandchildren, three nieces and one nephew.

Arlene was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Tom; her parents, Elmer and Nettie Erickson; brother, Howard Erickson; brother and sister-in-law, Elmo (Loretta) Erickson; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Shirley and Klennes Anderson.

Arlene was a wonderful and loving wife, Mom, Nana, Great Nana and friend. While her presence in our lives will be deeply missed, we know she will live on in our hearts forever.

The family of Arlene Lee would like to thank the staff at Touchmark and Hospice of the Red River Valley for the wonderful care they provided.

Memorials may be given to Trinity Lutheran Church or a charity of choice.

A celebration of Arlene Lee’s life will be held on Saturday, May 1, 2021, at 11:00 A.M., in Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead. A livestream will be available here.

Interment at Riverside Cemetery Columbarium, Moorhead.