Obituaries

Arlene Patricia Bisskey (née Brown), late of Regina, Saskatchewan, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026, at the age of 68, with her beloved husband, Dave, by her side.

Arlene was predeceased by her parents, Charles “Chuck” Brown and Elsie Brown, who undoubtedly would have been proud of the remarkable woman she became.

She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her husband of 47 years, David Bisskey; her children Kristin (Kenton), Jeffrey (Delta), and Ashley; and her grandchildren Cayden, Lucas, Jet, Jensen, Daysha and Daxton, who brought immense joy, laughter, pride, and probably a few headaches along the way.

Born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, to Chuck and Elsie Brown, Arlene attended Empire Elementary School and graduated from Riverview Collegiate in 1975. As a military spouse, she embraced a life of adventure and change, supporting Dave throughout his career as they made homes in Saskatchewan, Ontario, British Columbia, Germany, and eventually returned back to Saskatchewan. Once back in Regina, Arlene fulfilled a lifelong dream by earning her Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Regina.

Arlene built a long and meaningful career dedicated to helping others and navigating the occasionally wild world of government, justice, and social services. Over the years, she held positions centered around children and justice - Moose Jaw Police Department, Baden Youth Centre, and John Howard Society. She also compiled the Policy Manual for the Children’s Aid Society of Simcoe County in Ontario.

The last two decades of her professional life were dedicated to the Ministry of Social Services, where she supported children, families, and caregivers with kindness, empathy, and unwavering dedication. Her work included child protection, community resources, quality assurance, and litigation. Those who worked with Arlene knew that she genuinely cared and always sought to make a difference in the lives of others. Her kindness, compassion, and nurturing spirit earned her the affectionate nickname “Mama Bissk.” Whether offering guidance, support, or simply a listening ear, she had a way of making people feel valued and cared for.

Outside of work, Arlene was happiest when she was doing something active, competitive, or preferably both. She curled, played softball, volleyball, flag football, and loved a good round of cards – especially bridge. She was a proud member of the Royal Regina Golf Club for more than 25 years, where she formed many lasting friendships and enjoyed countless memorable rounds on the course — along with plenty of time at the 19th hole and the occasional golf shot that was best left unexplained.

Arlene loved being surrounded by family and friends and had a knack for making memories wherever she went. She was strong, independent, caring, generous, and never afraid to speak her mind. She worked hard, played hard, loved deeply, and lived life on her own terms.

During her final days, friends and family gathered at her bedside, sharing stories and reflecting on a life that, while too short, was lived to its fullest. There were tears, laughter, memories, and reminders of just how many lives Arlene had touched.

Above all, Arlene will be remembered for her strength, warmth, generous spirit, sense of humour, and the love she gave so freely to her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and in the treasured memories shared by those who knew and loved her.

In keeping with Arlene’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. She would likely prefer everyone skip the formalities, get together, tell some good stories, have a laugh, and perhaps raise a glass in her honour.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Arlene’s memory to the Allan Blair Cancer Centre.

She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and undoubtedly talked about for years to come — which is exactly how she would have wanted it.

We love you Mama Bissk!