Ardelle Delois Stenson Obituary – Anaheim, CA (1940-2026)

Ardelle Delois Stenson, a woman of quiet determination and boundless warmth, passed away peacefully at her home in Anaheim, California, at the age of 85. Born in Washington State to Florence and Rodney Stenson, she was raised on a modest family farm outside Harvey, North Dakota with her two younger brothers Don and Ron. She carried the resourcefulness of her upbringing with her always, trading the plains for the Southern California sunshine after graduating from the University of North Dakota.

She built a life in Long Beach and Cypress that was as full as it was purposeful. For 42 years, she served as a Clinical Laboratory Specialist at Long Beach Memorial Hospital, bringing the same sharp mind and tireless dedication to her work that she poured into everything she touched. Outside the hospital, she was an avid quilter, a lover of theater and dance, and a passionate follower of fashion — from sewing her own designs to appreciating its artistry and history. She was also a devoted member of Sons of Norway and other charitable organizations. Fiercely resourceful and endlessly creative, she rarely encountered a problem she couldn’t solve, and was cherished by all who knew her.

Ardelle made one of the defining choices of her life when she decided to become a mother, blazing her own trail at a time when single motherhood by choice was nearly unheard of. Her daughter, Jenni, became the center of her world. She asked that her memorial marker bear these words: “Being Jenni’s mom was the joy of my life.” Tragically, Jenni preceded her in death in 2021. She is also preceded by her brother, Ron, and is survived by her brother, Don (Bonnie), and Jenni’s husband (Trevor) who remained close to her in her final years, and many extended family members.

Ardelle will be laid to rest at Better Place Forest in Lake Arrowhead, alongside her daughter Jenni. Those who wish to visit may schedule a time through Better Place Forest’s website. She will be remembered for her understated strength and the enormous love she bestowed upon her daughter’s life and the lives of the friends and family she held dear. In lieu of flowers, Ardelle requested donations to First Descents, the Send It Foundation, or the Cancer Support Community of Los Angeles.…Read more by Press Telegram