Arlene Marie (Zaruba) Falkenberg
Arlene Marie (Zaruba) Falkenberg, 88, lifelong resident of Cadott, passed away early, Monday, Jan. 29, 2024, under the care of Mayo Hospice and Home Instead Home Care Services.
Born May 28, 1935, to Steve and Josephine Zaruba, Arlene was blessed to have many roles as a wife, mother, sister, daughter, aunt, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Arlene graduated from Cadott High School in 1953.
She married Russell Falkenberg Sr., in 1960. Russ and Arlene spent their married life living in Cadott.
Arlene worked for many years, preparing taxes for people in the area, and enjoyed helping others with this challenging task.
She was a private and content person, who was fiercely dedicated to her children. Her family and her beloved boxer dogs came first, and were above all else to Arlene. She was a loyal fan and supporter of her children throughout their lives.
Fond family memories were made at the family cabin in Ojibwa. As the weather warmed up, you could find Russ and Arlene spending quality time together, floating down the river, fishing for musky. Then, in the fall, Arlene would ride along with Russ, while hunting grouse.
When not enjoying time “up north,” Arlene was busy in one of her many flower or vegetable gardens, baking cookies or preparing the next best meal for her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband – Russ, June 22, 1998; parents – Steve and Josephine Zaruba; siblings – Joyce (Ed) Stanek, Betty Pelton, Ken Zaruba, LaVerne (Ardis) Zaruba and Lois Zaruba, in infancy.
She is survived by her children – Jan Luthy, Granbury, Texas, Russ Falkenberg Jr., Cadott, Amy Falkenberg, Strum, and Tami (Greg) Slowiak, Chippewa Falls; grandchildren – Vince and Wes Hall, Andrew Falkenberg, MacKenzie Falkenberg Elliott and Chloe Elliott, Zach (Riley) Slowiak and Zandy Slowiak; great-grandchildren – Abby, Jay, Audrey and Axel Hall, Asher Slowiak and soonto- be Baby Slowiak; her brother – Allen (Bonnie) Zaruba; sisters-in-law – Judy Zaruba and Sue (Gene) Beadell; and many cousins; nieces; nephews and other close friends.
Arlene’s children would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Home Instead, for all the support, companionship and care rendered during her time at home. They made it possible for mom to be exactly where she wanted to be.
Additionally, we offer our sincere thanks to Mayo Hospice, as you made Mom’s last days at home more comfortable, up until her passing.
A prayer service officiated by the Rev. George Olinske will take place at Leiser Funeral Home in Cadott, Sunday, Feb. 4, at 2 p.m. The children of Arlene will greet friends and family at 1 p.m. Inurnment will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Arlene’s name, to Home Instead Senior Care-Eau Claire 848.
