Marsha Anne (Christman) Arner

WORCESTER – Marsha Anne (Christman) Arner, 77, of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at Knollwood Nursing Center, West Boylston.

Marsha’s husband of 50 years, David Carl Arner, died in 2017.  She is survived by her four children, Michael Arner and his wife Tara, Betsy Arner, Matthew Arner and his wife Mini, Melissa Arner; two stepchildren Tammy Baldauf and David Arner; a brother, Larry Christman of Reedley CA, a sister, Vivian Meron of Allentown PA and five grandchildren, Katie, Jason, Neil, Jade and Kayla.  She was born in Allentown, PA, the daughter of Henry W. and Beatrice M. (Rau) Christman. 

Marsha leaves behind a much loved and steadfast second husband in Howard Carlson of Worcester, MA who provided immeasurable support to her in the final years of her life.  Her children are extremely grateful to Howard and the entire Carlson family.

Marsha, first and foremost a mother, also loved working as a hairdresser, and later with disabled children.  She enjoyed all things crafty including sewing, knitting and painting; outdoor activities including kayaking, snowmobiling, flying and gardening.   She loved Pug dogs and had several over the years.

Marsha was an active member of many churches; her faith was unwavering.  She began her life in the Mennonite church and then raised her family as members of Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Manchester, CT.  In retirement she and David attended Union Evangelical Church in Greenville ME and when she moved to Worcester in 2017, Salem Covenant Church became her spiritual home.  Her passion was singing, and she was an active church choir member all of her life.

A memorial service will be held Friday, August 20th, 2021 at 11:00 at Salem Covenant Church, 215 Mountain St E, Worcester.  Arrangements are in the care of Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Ave, Worcester.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/donate/) or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (PO Box 849168 Boston, MA 02284-9168, or via https://www.dana-farber.org/how-you-can-help/ways-to-give/).