Arlene Faye Vanek

Arlene Faye Vanek, 80, passed away on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at her family’s home in Glenville, MN. A funeral service will be held at 1:30pm on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at the Bayview/Freeborn Funeral Home in Albert Lea, MN. A visitation will be held from 12:30-1:30pm on the day of the funeral. Pastor Kent Otterman will be officiating.

Arlene was born on January 22, 1944 to her parents Ernest and Anna at their house in Austin, MN. On December 29, 1961, she was married to Lauren Vanek, and together they had three children: Kathy, Greg, and Jeff.

Arlene was an outgoing person. She loved her trips to Mexico, and with her friends in the Outward Bound program, she climbed and set a record for a mountain in Colorado that stands to this day. She was a hard worker, whether it be pouring concrete, painting, or volunteering as a church lady for the First Lutheran Church in Glenville, she let her “can-do” attitude speak for itself. 

Arlene was also an extremely generous person, giving up her time, talent, and knowledge to those around her. She was an accomplished seamstress and would make custom items for those who asked. She loved to bake, and was known for her Rice-Krispy bars, cookies, and cakes. Most of all, she loved spending time with her grandchildren. During family events, she would make it a point to play with them.

Arlene is survived in death by her daughter Kathy (David) Snyder; son Greg (Jenny) Vanek, and her seven grandchildren.

Arlene is preceded in death by her husband Lauren Vanek; son Jeff Vanek; and her parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to donor’s choice.