Arlene Geiken

Arlene Doris Geiken passed away peacefully at her home in Denver, Colorado on January 13, 2025, at the age of 87.

Born on July 25, 1937, in Butte, Montana, to Edwin and Gladys Schmitt, Arlene grew up in Butte and attended Butte High School. She pursued higher education at Eastern Montana College's School of Education, where she met her future husband, John Geiken. Together, they transferred to Montana State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education in 1959. That same year, Arlene and John married in August and began their life together in Great Falls.

Arlene dedicated her early career to teaching elementary students until 1964 with the birth of their first child, Julie. Their family grew with the arrivals of Brad in 1968 and Virginia in 1973. In 1979, they relocated to Prior Lake, Minnesota, where Arlene balanced part-time work as a special education teacher while raising their children.

A talented seamstress and avid crafter, Arlene found joy in sewing, baking, and entertaining family and friends. She had a special gift for making holidays magical and was involved in volunteer work throughout her life. She and John enjoyed social gatherings with friends, including bridge nights and dancing with the local Follies Dance Troupe.

Arlene will be remembered for her warmth and genuine curiosity about others' lives. She had a quick wit, a playful spirit, and an infectious laugh that endeared her to many. She will be missed dearly.

She is survived by her brother Dan Schmitt; sister Carol Pickard; children Julie Persaud, Brad Geiken, and Virginia Walton (son-in-law Phil Walton); as well as grandchildren Adriana, Calista, Ella, and August.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.