Obituary of Arlene Clare Perring

Arlene Clare Perring ~Passed away in the loving presence of her youngest
daughter “Lexi” (Alexiis) and devoted Son-in-law Eric Willis on July 7, 2025, at
Hospice Wellington.
In Loving Memory of Arlene
A Life Filled with Love and Dedication
Arlene was the loving partner and wife of the late Ashley James Perring, who
predeceased her on April 30, 1998. She is also predeceased by her parents, Hank and
Margaret Austin, Gerry Runstedler (Walter), and her sister Jeannett "Bobby" Eybergen
(Dan). She will be dearly missed by her brother Dan Austin and beloved sister-in-law
Peggy, as well as her many nieces and nephews. Arlene was a caring and loving
mother to her son Austin and daughters Allison and Alexiis (Eric). Arlene will be
remembered for her witty sense of humour, thoughtfulness, creativity, and selfless
devotion to her family and community. She cherished her role as a grandmother,
affectionately known as Gammy to Kiefer, Willow, Sage, and Hudson.
Passions and Achievements
Arlene adored interior design and found immense healing after Ashley’s passing by buying and
renovating 19th-century homes, then selling them to their “forever owners.” She expressed her
creativity further through her work at Galleries La Finesse in Downtown Guelph on MacDonnell
Street until the winter of 2019/2020. Arlene was an exceptionally gifted student, having skipped
two grades and entered university at the age of 16. Raised in a deeply musical household, she
was also a wonderful pianist. Born and raised a Roman Catholic, she received her last rites
from Father Paul of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception (nee. Church of
Our Lady).
Family, Community, and Values
The Perring family dinner table was always lively, with Arlene and Ashley passionately
discussing politics from opposite sides—Arlene a "Catholic-Liberal," Ashley a "Conservative-
Atheist." They endowed their children with the gift of learning from both perspectives and the
freedom to choose their own paths. Arlene actively participated in her community, holding many
roles throughout her children’s lives, from Snowy Owl and organizing bazaars for their school to
sewing dance costumes for her daughters and advocating tirelessly for her oldest children. She
ensured none of them were ever “lost in the shuffle.”
The family treasured their summers on the Sauble River, which was their “Happy Place.” Arlene
was always present, loving, and selfless in her care for her family. She was a consummate
nurturer, especially during the holidays when her home reflected her generous spirit. Christmas
held a special place in her heart, and she delighted in decorating her home and her children’s
homes, making each season magical with her attention to detail. Arlene cared deeply about herfriendships, neighbours, and community, leaving a lasting impression with her thoughtful
kindness and welcoming presence.
Gratitude and Farewell
Arlene’s final days were spent at hospice, and the family wishes to express their heartfelt
gratitude for the extraordinary care, love, and compassion they received from the staff and
volunteers at Hospice Wellington in Guelph. The family is forever in their debt and hopes to pay
it forward. A special thank you goes to Claire, their guardian angel throughout the process.
From the bottom of their hearts, the family offers their deepest thanks.

Epitaph ~ “My candle burns at both ends; It will not last the night; But ah, my

foes, and oh, my friends – It gives a lovely light”

Edna St. Vincent Millay

Up-Hill
By Christina Rossetti
Does the road wind up-hill all the way?
   Yes, to the very end.
Will the day’s journey take the whole long day?
   From morn to night, my friend.
But is there for the night a resting-place?
   A roof for when the slow dark hours begin.
May not the darkness hide it from my face?
   You cannot miss that inn.

Shall I meet other wayfarers at night?
   Those who have gone before.
Then must I knock, or call when just in sight?
   They will not keep you standing at that door.

Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak?
   Of labour you shall find the sum.
Will there be beds for me and all who seek?
   Yea, beds for all who come.