Arlene S. Firkus, 76

Arlene S. Firkus, age 76, of Stevens Point passed away Wednesday, January 23, 2019, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

A Mass of a Christian Burial for Arlene will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, January 28 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 838 Fremont St. Stevens Point. Rev. Steve Brice will officiate. Friends and family may gather to share memories from 9:30 -10:45 a.m. on Monday at the church. Burial will be held at a later date. Shuda Funeral Service is assisting the family.

Arlene was born on August 28, 1942, in Chicago, the daughter of Mary (Iwaniec) Major. She attended local schools in Chicago, and in 1952 moved to Stevens Point with her family, where she graduated from P.J. Jacobs High School in 1958.

On May 9, 1959, Arlene married Leonard Firkus at St. Mary’s—Torun Catholic Church. In 1965 Arlene and Leonard became sanitary engineer entrepreneurs and started “The City of Red, White, and Blue” in Stevens Point. Arlene worked as a sous chef for Blue Top Supper Club and Pete Redfield’s Silver Coach. She later worked for the Stevens Point school district for 23 years before retiring.

Arlene loved to cook for family, friends, and for anyone that entered her home, “You never left hungry”. She also loved to knit anything that made one feel warm and cared for. Arlene enjoyed beautiful flowers and decorating, making God’s creations come alive.

Arlene also enjoyed her four-wheeling mule, taking anyone for a cruise around the farmland.

Arlene was a woman that had such great strength, determination, and faith in God. She showed deep love for family, friends, and those that had the privilege to have known her.

She is survived by her husband Leonard; three children: Christopher (Diane Oltesivg) Firkus, Audrey (Bob) Omelina, and Pauline (Mark Pionkowski) Firkus; three grandchildren: Stacey (Jeremy) Boileau, Scott (Tracy) Firkus, and Austin Omelina; two great-grandchildren: Tenly and Brinley Boileau; her sister Margret Kelly; brother-in-law Tom Kelley; nephews Terry Firkus, Dan Kelley, niece Lisa Kelley; and best, dear friend Lori Shroda. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Arlene’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude for all the love and support that was given by so many. They hope that you know you are an important gift to them and pray that you are blessed.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.shudafuneral.com.