WESTLUND, Alice Louise

Parker Pioneer, Parker, Arizona - Published Thursday, April 22, 2010 - Alice Louise (O'Brien) Westlund, 89 of Big River, Ca., went home to be with the Lord on March 26, 2010. She was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, on July 27, 1920 daughter of Richard J O'Brien and Alice M. Love. Alice moved to La Puente, Calif., with her husband and family in 1956 and retired to Big River 30 years ago. She was a charter member of American Legion Post 466 Women's Auxiliary in Big River she served as Auxiliary President 1984-1985 and 1994-1995. She was 25th District President 1997-1998, continuing to stay active holding several offices and serving on committee. She is survived by her loving husband and soul mate of 68 years, Bert Westlund, daughter Kathie Gillis of Big River, son Paul (Sandy) Westlund, of Fallbrook, Callif., daughter-in-law Jamie Westlund Lake Havasu Cit; 10 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandsons. She was preceded in death by sons Richard (Ken )Westlund and Mark Westlund, her parents, brothers Richard O'Brien, Fran O'Brien, Arthur O'Brien, Harry O'Brien and Robert O'Brien, sisters Edith Gamache and Dorothy Grenier. When once asked what she was most proud of in life, she replied very simply: "My family and the things they have accomplished." Her love and pride for her family could be seen in the meticulous planning of every family gathering, in every bread pudding and in every craft she made for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Her unceasing love and contagious laughter wrapped everyone together and rekindled the spirit of family in all of us. She might have been proud of us for things that we have done, but that would be for nothing if we did not tip our hats to magnanimous woman who showed us how. We love you and will miss you always.