Arlene Nicola
Arlene Marie McColley Nicola, 71, danced into the arms of her Savior on Monday, April 7. After years of severe physical disabilities, she is now renewed and free. She joined her husband, Rex, and her parents in heaven. She is survived by her daughter, Keri Boer, and granddaughter, Emily Boer, of Black Mountain, NC; her sister, Linda Cornelius, of Goose Lake, IA; and her brother, Doug Van Hoff, of Kankakee, IL, along with their spouses and children.
A native of Fort Dodge, IA, Arlene earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa. She was an accomplished psychotherapist who touched innumerable lives. She was known for her wisdom, empathy, and fun-loving nature, as well as her leadership among healing professionals. Her specialties were working with trauma survivors and those who suffered from spiritual bondage. One of her most impactful provisions of service occurred when she debriefed New York City police and firefighters after 9/11.
Arlene moved to Western North Carolina to be close to her daughter this fall. She quickly developed friendships in her new community, especially at Christ Community Church, Montreat, and she will be missed by everyone who knew her. A service to celebrate her life will be held in May.