10/03/2026
There's a quiet enduring beauty in living inside a home that was treasured before it was yours. Richard and Arlene Grein owned The Victorian Rose (known as The Hastings House) for years before we purchased the home in 2005. Arlene was the heart of this home, but her warmth reached far beyond the front gate. To citizens of Biggs she was a beacon of warmth. Arlene saw beauty in nature, old homes, old things and in people. She touched so many over the years with her kind, open and accepting heart.
When we bought our Rose, Arlene became one of my first friends in Biggs. Over the years she told me stories about the house, promoted our business, and gave me items from The Hastings House. Every room of The Victorian Rose holds a piece of Arlene. The most precious gift Arlene gave me was her friendship. She was supportive, encouraging and loving to me for 21 years.
Arlene passed away on Sept. 24th surrounded by her family. I will miss my sweet friend deeply.
The Grein family held Arlene's Celebration of Life at The Victorian Rose yesterday. It was a beautiful, well attended event. Family members worked so hard to get the gardens prepared and decorated to prefectly reflect all the things Arlene loved. We thank the Grein family for allowing us to be part of such a special event.
Rest well, sister. I know you're now lovingly tending to God's gardens. ❤️❤️❤️
