Margaret Ann Arfsten
June 10, 1939 - May 15, 2023
Margaret Ann Arfsten passed away peacefully, to be with our Lord, on May 15, 2023, in Gilbert, Arizona. She was 83 years old. Margaret was a life-long member of the Catholic Church. Devoted to God, her husband, her family and to many friends. Margaret was a ray of sunshine and always had a big smile and positive words to offer, along with her homemade cookies. She was born Margaret Ann Weigel, in Ovid, Colorado, on June 10, 1939. She was the oldest of five children born to Pat and Margaret Weigel. Margaret graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a degree in Teaching, later receiving her master's degree in education. UNC is where she met Donald James Arfsten. They married on August 22, 1959.
Margaret and Don moved to Longmont, Colorado in 1960. Margaret taught Kindergarten at Columbine Elementary School and later at Rocky Mountain Elementary. Their son, Greg Alan was born on July 21, 1961, followed by their daughter Michelle Aleen, December 16, 1966. Margaret was active in the St. Vrain Schools and delighted in her role as a teacher.
Margaret retired from Teaching in 1994. She and Don became "snowbirds" having a home in Longmont, CO and a home in Chandler, AZ. Margaret and Don were both dedicated to the ministry of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. They were communion ministers and reached out to new members and those that could not attend church. Margaret loved children, especially Kindergarteners and Babies! She volunteered with the Bright Beginnings Program for new mothers and their infants, American cancer society, Children's hospital, Food banks and in each of her grandchildren's elementary schools. She was a member of the renowned Red Hat Ladies.
Anyone that knew Margaret immediately loved her. She was thoughtful, loving and kind. Margaret's favorite symbol was a Happy Face ?1/2 with a single hair-curl. She signed all her cards and letters with her prominent happy face! She even had it tattooed on her hip! She had the motto "Do it while you CAN!" and she lived by that belief.
Over 63 wonderful years of marriage, Margaret and Don enjoyed traveling to venues like Mexico, Jamaica, Hawaii, and Europe, including several Cruises. Margaret and Don were diligent about attending Family Reunions, Graduations, Weddings, Birthdays, Sporting Events and Plays that included their five grandchildren, godchildren, nieces, and nephews. Margaret and Don planned unique Vacation Trips for each of their Grandkids' High School Graduations. Margaret was extremely generous and a true blessing to those around her.
Margaret is survived by her husband Don, her son Dr. Greg (Lori) Arfsten of Littleton, CO and her daughter, Michelle (Brad) Tatman of Gilbert, AZ. Margaret and Don have five grandchildren, Jennifer 29, Sean 26, Samuel 23, Shane 19 and Megan 12. Godchildren include Bob Angelo 38, Brennan Ramos 31, Dominic Mills and Bob Debus. God family Bonnie and Louie Ramos. Margaret has four surviving siblings, Norma (George) Debus, Pete (Myrna) Weigel, Joyce Lamb and Sandy (Don) Selchert. Surviving Brother-in law Dennis (Ilene) Arfsten, Judy Halford and June White, along with several nieces and nephews.
Over several decades, Margaret and Don built many life-long friendships in Longmont. Margaret was a Cancer survivor and supported Relay for Life. She always reached out to those in need.
Margaret enjoyed collecting "angels" (a symbol of what she truly was). She was an avid reader and loved to play card games with friends and family. Her pride and joy were her grandchildren (they call her Nana) and her godchildren. She made sure they had many precious memories together and she always expressed her love for them. Her kitchen had hundreds of photos of her family and friends all over her walls and covering her entire refrigerator. Margaret Arfsten provided the perfect example of how to be a loving mom, a listening friend, a devoted wife, a cherished sister, a fun Nana, and an amazing Godmother. As busy as she was, everyone knew her grandchildren were her top priority.
She will be missed and Loved Always!
A Mass and Celebration of Life will be held at a future date in Longmont, Colorado.
Please visit Howe Mortuary to leave condolences for the Family.
Contributions in memory of Margaret can be made to the American Cancer Society. Grant eternal rest unto Margaret O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and the souls of all the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.