Wanda Pauline Artherholt Blakely, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2020, with family by her side.
She was born June 22, 1922 in Delphine, Oklahoma to Curt and Maggie Artherholt.
In 1928, Wanda Pauline Artherholt and the Artherholt family moved from Oklahoma to Arizona in a 1928 Ford flatbed truck. Inside the cab were Mom and Dad. In the back, surrounded by sideboards and covered with canvas was six year old Pauline and her eight siblings.
They came through Salt River Canyon, which was a dirt road, and at times all but the driver would have to get out and push the truck up the hills.
The family settled in Gilbert, Arizona. At the age of 20, Pauline met her lifelong love, Charles M. Blakely. Charles and Pauline were married in 1942. In 1950, they moved to Wickenburg, Arizona with their four children: Charlene, Paul, Lulene, and Marion.
Charles and Pauline opened Blakely Gas Station #9. Together with the Blakely Brothers, they eventually opened 88 gas stations throughout Arizona.
One of Pauline’s greatest joys was her 1956 Ford pickup that she restored as a Blakely service truck. Pauline took the truck to many car shows where she loved to meet and talk to people about Blakely promotions and giveaways. She also attended many Gold Rush Days Parades, riding in her truck with her big smiley face.
When friends and family had a birthday she would call them and ring a little angel bell. She would sing, “Bells are ringing, birds are singing. Happy Birthday to you!” She was called “Mom” by many friends and extended family members.
Rest peacefully with our Lord. We love you Mom.
She is predeceased by her husband, Charles and son, Paul and son-in-law Bob.
She is survived by her daughters, Charlene and Lulene (Sandy); son, Marion (Sherry); five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Family services are being held May 11, 2020 at Mountain View Memorial Gardens in Mesa, Arizona.
We want to thank Hospice of the Valley, especially Bernie, Katie, and Anthony for making it possible to keep Mom at home with us.
Dearest Friends, Marion “Charley” and Cheri and Family,
When today is too much to bear, slip back to yesterday and feel the love. Remember the closeness, the happiness, and the strength because these things you shared will be with you forever…may you find comfort in knowing that you’re surrounded by so many who want to be there for you—always.
With love, caring thoughts, and sympathy,
Harvey and Christine Manson
She Was Alway,s Kind To Me. She Was My Landlord ,And Best Friends Mother. RIP Mrs Blakeiy.