Aleta Arlene Gifford

Aleta Arlene Gifford, the daughter of Vernon and Vina (Bell) Sharp, was born July 8, 1931, in Newton. 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 TV and was a St. Louis Cardinals, Iowa Hawkeye and Iowa State Cyclone fan.

Arlene died Friday, Aug. 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) and 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.

A funeral service will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 21 at the Pence-Reese Funeral Home in Newton. The family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. 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.