Arlon Woodlee

Arlon Woodlee, a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished friend, departed this earthly realm on January 24, 2025, enveloped in the warmth of loving memories shared with those he held dear. Born on February 23, 1949, in the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado, Arlon's spirit was as expansive as the skies above and as nurturing as the earth beneath him.

 Arlon's journey through life was marked by his unwavering faith and commitment to community. He rekindled his spiritual journey in Lake Havasu City, Arizona as a member of St. Michael's UMC. This journey continued at UMCoY, (UMC of Yucaipa) in Yucaipa, California, and Silver Creek UMC in Hancock, Iowa. 

 In 2020, during the pandemic, Arlon successfully completed the coursework to become a Licensed Local Pastor. He was appointed as Pastor to Anita and Wiota UMCs. His illness prevented him from serving those churches for more than 2 years. One of his regrets was that he "didn't pursue becoming a pastor earlier in life." His dedication to these churches reflected his deep-rooted belief in fellowship and service, demonstrating a life enriched by connection to others and the divine. 

 An educated soul, Arlon embraced knowledge from an early age. He attended elementary and junior high in Fort Logan, Colorado, and graduated from Sheridan High School, 1967. His thirst for learning took him to Rangely Junior College in Rangely, Colorado, 1967-1969. Arlon was recruited in 1969 to play varsity basketball for the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. While at UAF (1969-1975), Arlon thrived academically. He also became a student firefighter for the UAF campus and Fairbanks area, as well as the UAF coach for the women's basketball team. While still a student, Arlon and his wife were the Resident Advisors (aka dorm parents) for McIntosh Hall, one of the many student dormitories. Each role he undertook was a testament to his leadership and commitment to uplifting those around him.

 Arlon's love for nature and adventure was evident in the passions he pursued. For 50 years, he dedicated himself to training hunting dogs, becoming a cherished member of the North American Hunting Retriever Association (NAHRA). His love for hunting, fishing, reading, and playing recreation softball and basketball (Fairbanks and Anchorage), along with being a referee for adult basketball, and coaching Little League baseball all brought immense joy to his life. These activities embodied the essence of an adventurous spirit and a heart that sought the thrill of life's simple pleasures.

 Arlon attended Officer's Candidate Training with the Marine Corps at Quantico, Virginia (1972). That experience imprinted upon him values of discipline and duty, reinforcing the foundation of character he displayed throughout his life. He was always ready to lend a hand, to serve those in need, and to cherish the bonds of friendship, family and community.

 Arlon lived in Alaska (Fairbanks, Anchorage, and Barrow) for almost 28 years. The jobs Arlon held during that time were quite varied. They included being part of the crew in the construction of the beautiful Elmer E. Rasmusen Library at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks campus (along with his fellow UAF basketball players). He was a tour guide/bus driver for a Fairbanks tour company, which was a job he delighted in and the tourists enjoyed immensely due to his good looks, gentlemanly manner, and great sense of humor (the tips were generous and welcomed as a newly married man). 

 He taught business education classes at a Fairbanks business school, and was also a substitute teacher of business classes at Fairbanks high schools. Arlon and his first wife relocated to Anchorage, Alaska in 1975, where they resided for 24 years, when he became the sales representative for one of the two school supply companies he ultimately worked for. Those jobs had him traveling throughout Alaska for many years and eventually included Colorado. In between his school supply gigs (1984-1985), Arlon coached the junior varsity boys basketball team at the Barrow High School in Utqiagvik, Alaska, and was PTA president for 2 years at his sons elementary school. 

 Arlon leaves behind his first wife and friend, Peggy Aamodt, of Portland, Oregon, and his loving wife, Jill Darling of Hancock, Iowa, who was a pillar of strength and companion the latter part of on his life's journey. His legacy continues through his daughter Jennifer Green of Denver, Colorado, and devoted sons Ried Aamodt Woodlee and Lonne Aamodt Woodlee both of Portland, Oregon. Additionally, his stepchildren, Michael Steskal of North Bend, Washington, and Kristiana Darling-Levin of Prairie Village, Kansas, along with 7 grandchildren and 7 step-grandchildren. All whom will carry forward his spirit of love and kindness.

 Arlon is also survived by his siblings: Donald Woodlee, David Woodlee, Charles (Chuck) Woodlee, Brian Woodlee, Mary Woodlee, Roger Woodlee, and Karen Lintott, each of whom will undoubtedly hold his memory close to their hearts.

 Arlon is welcomed into the eternal realm by his beloved mother, Corliss Veronica Mosley Woodlee, his father, Merle Donald Woodlee, and his brother, Michael Woodlee-ready to reunite, share stories, and continue the connections that bind us across the celestial divide.

 There's so much more to Arlon, it's hard to pare down words. So, as we reflect on Arlon's life, let us remember a man who embodied the spirit of love, community, and connection-the very essence of our humanity. May his journey beyond be filled with the light he shared and the love he cultivated, reminding us of the divine spirit residing in each of us. His memory will forever echo in the hearts of all who knew him.