Arlene "Nicki" Hagoski, 82, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 12, following a long and difficult battle with Parkinson's disease. Even in the hardest moments, she carried her familiar gentleness and quiet strength, facing her illness the way she lived her life: with honesty, stubborn resilience, and an open heart.

Born Arlene Marie Nye on October 6, 1943, in Tacoma, WA, Nicki's early life was marked by loss and transition. Her father died in WWII when she was two. She lived with her grandmother until her mother, Donna, met and married Walter Cebula, a Navy serviceman stationed in Hawaii, where the family then moved. Her sister, Paula, was born in Hawaii when Nicki was ten. Her sister, Karen, came along later. Hawaii always held a special place in Nicki’s heart.

After graduating as an A student from Claremont High School in California, she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of San Diego in 1965. Pursuing her passion for helping others, she returned to Washington to earn her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Washington in 1970.

Soon after, while working for Washington State DSHS, she met Steven Hagoski, and they married in 1971. She thought of herself as a second mother to Steven's son from a previous marriage, Brian. They welcomed their son, Brad, in 1978. They later divorced in 2001.

She spent the majority of her life in Tacoma and the surrounding areas, a place she loved, surrounded by people who meant the world to her.

For decades, she dedicated herself to others as a Child and Family Therapist in private practice. Her commitment to vulnerable populations was extensive, covering everything from Children's Protective Services for the Department of Social and Health Services to counseling for low-income families and consulting for facilities for the developmentally disabled. Her deep compassion wasn't merely a professional offering; it shaped every relationship she had. She listened deeply, cared fully, always seemed to make space for others, and was known for offering thoughtful advice. Her "girl friends" were central to her life; she was always part of a women's circle or group that empowered and uplifted her.

Nicki was a woman of whimsical spirit and deep appreciation for nature and the arts. She loved music, playing the accordion and the harp. She also loved sailing, camping, bicycling, hiking, and even climbed Mt. Rainier, appreciating nature in many ways. Often, she would return from her walks with a small bouquet of three or four flowers. When asked where she got them, she would mischievously reply, "Oh, I'm just borrowing them."

She was preceded in death by her mother, Donna Marie Wilson Nye, and her sister, Karen Cebula.

Nicki is survived by her devoted son, Brad Hagoski; her son in her heart, Brian; and her loving sister, Paula Frazier.

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