Arlene Lupke

She was born on March 31, 1939 to Paul and Edna (Duffy) Larsen of rural St. James. She attended country school in Rosendale Township and later attended high school in St. James and graduated in 1957. She was very active in 4-H as a young girl and also liked playing softball. After graduation, Arlene began work in the fall of 1957 at the Watonwan County Courthouse Judge of Probate Office. She worked there approximately 9 years. In 1960, she married Jerald Lupke of Truman. They had two children together, Troy and Tammy. They raised their family in St. James where Jerry drove truck for UPS and farmed near South Branch until his retirement in 2000. Arlene enjoyed many things in her life and lived all her days to the fullest. She was very active in her church at First Lutheran serving on many committees such as chairman of the funeral committee and volunteered her time for the Nordic Bizarre. She gardened, raising flowers and vegetables with great pride and loved to admire their beauty. She also loved antiquing, shopping, pets, cooking, traveling, and sharing the company of many good friends. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. She loved them dearly and was always interested in their activities. She truly enjoyed hockey and went to many games over the years to see her three grandsons play. She followed her granddaughter's accomplishments and was also very proud of them. Her life revolved around her family and she looked forward to sharing holidays, birthdays, and other fun events. She loved to cook whether it was a small meal or large holiday feast. Arlene was a friend to many people. Her family and friends will truly miss her. Arlene J. Lupke passed away on Monday April 23, 2007 at her home. She was 68 years old. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Troy and Shirley Lupke of Foreston, MN, daughter and son-in-law Tamara and David Palm of Sleepy Eye, MN, grandchildren Kristi, Travis and Amanda Lupke, Brandon and Lucas Palm, sister Deloris Madison of St. James, brother James and Lynn Larson of St. James, sister-in-law Gloria Sweeney of Soldtna, AK, special friends Lawrence and Rose Ruhland of St. James and several nieces, nephews and cousins.