Obituary of Nancy Dow-Arnold

The passing of Nancy Dow-Arnold of Fredericton, NB, wife of the late Ronald Arnold occurred on Saturday, April 18, 2015 at home. Born on January 13, 1935 in Salmonhurst, NB, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Christina (Michaud) Petersen. Nancy was a lover of all animals. She so adored her cat “Peanut”. It gave her such joy to watch the birds at the feeders, the deer in the field, those “bad” squirrels and even the racoons. She even named some of them… that was so typical of her! A talented gardener with an exceptional green thumb, she could transform the most parched and wilted plant into full bloom. She took great pride with her home and many passersby would often comment how much her place resembled a “dollhouse” with her colourful flowers, hanging baskets, quirky lawn ornaments and her special brand of folk art perfectly arranged and displayed. Mum loved to cook, bake, preserve and try out new recipes. Such wonderful aromas wafted out of her kitchen, from homemade bread to her signature “turkey legs and stuffing”. For many years, Nancy was a loving caregiver and “raised” many kids. Her face would light up whenever she happened to meet up with one of her “all grown up” charges… she always took time to talk and carry on with the wee ones she’d see on her travels. Our mum had a “wicked” sense of humour and personality plus! Earthy, creative, clever and lots of fun… fiercely independent and not one to mince words! We are indeed so very proud of her! She will be terribly missed by all who knew and loved her. Love you Ma, talk tomorrow, k? Nancy is survived by her daughters, Linda Dow-Yorke of Darmouth, NS and Shelley Dow (Dan MacDougall) of Fredericton, NB; daughter in law, Lisa Dow; grandchildren, Katie Dow (Steve MacNeil), Alex Yorke, Max Yorke and Nicholas Butt; great grandchildren, Joe and Sophie; sisters, Lorene “Bunny” Taylor, Jayne Smith (Charlie) and Laurel “Lolly” Christensen; brothers, Raymar Petersen, Wayne Petersen (caregiver, Sandra Hitchcock) and Harley Petersen (Penny); numerous nieces and nephews; special friend, Angela Sullivan. Besides her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her first husband, Robert Dow Sr.; son, Robert Dow Jr.; great granddaughter, Solaira; sisters, Pauline Christensen, Leona Sowers, Alice Jensen, Margie Petersen and Helen Hansen; brother, Dick Petersen. Although there will be no visitation; a Memorial Service will take place at York Funeral Home’s T. Gordon MacLeod Memorial Chapel on Friday, April 24, 2015 at 2 pm with Rev. Douglas Moore officiating. Interment will take place in Alexander Gibson Memorial Cemetery at a later date. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the New Brunswick Heart and Stroke Foundation or Oromocto SPCA. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com