Arlene Joan Axelson

Arlene Joan (Hellerud) Axelson of Bloomington, MN passed into eternal life peacefully on
February 21st, 2025.
Arlene was born in Nerstrand, MN to Hillman and Adella Hellerud; the oldest of four siblings (Sisters Diane & Sharon and brother Craig). As a child, she spent time living and working on the family farm; and family restaurants. She was very involved in music, playing saxophone and singing in the family band.
After high school she worked as a flight attendant for North Central Airlines, based at Midway Airport, before marrying Norman Axelson in December of 1955. After her children were born, she began her successful career in real estate. She worked for 45 years in the real estate industry; which culminated in her receiving a proclamation from the mayors of both Bloomington and Edina, declaring January 16th, 2019 as "Arlene Axelson Day" in their respective cities for her prolific career in promoting their cities and her dedication and integrity in the real estate profession. She also spent many years volunteering with the Bloomington Rotary.
She was a talented musician, directing the youth choir at Hillcrest United Methodist Church for over twenty years, along with singing in the Adult choir. She composed several songs, along with a musical entitled "Sojourn", from the book of Ruth. Several of her songs have been published. She was a natural musician, with the ability to play the piano by ear with a beautiful singing voice as well. Arlene was a devout Christian and very active in her church.
She loved to play golf, enjoying time with her husband Norm at Brackett's Crossing Golf Club for many years. She was involved in Bloomington Civic Theatre musicals, participated in bridge club and loved to entertain.
Arlene had three daughters (Becky, Gretchen and Kristin), and five grandchildren (Matthew, Joseph, Lauren, Martha and Benjamin). She hosted many family dinners and gatherings at her home and never said "no" to babysitting her grandkids. She was "Nana" to her grandchildren and she loved spending time with them; taking them to play golf, school shopping, slumber parties, or attending their sporting events. Her daughters have many fond memories of family trips, golf tournaments and spending time with their mom. She had a great sense of humor and was well known for her silly jokes and pranks. She will be greatly missed by her family.
Arlene's sister Diane (only living sibling), was a special treasure to her, sending her cards, letters and gifts, almost weekly until the day she died.
She is survived by daughters, Becky (Greg) Yates, Gretchen (Michael) Sapp, Kristin (Robert) Kuderer, Grandchildren Matthew, Lauren and Benjamin Sapp, Joseph and Martha Kuderer and step grandchildren, Kara and Ryan Yates; Sister Diane (Dave) Maday, Sister-in-law Carol Axelson and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Her family would like to thank the sta at Havenwood of Richfield for the love and care they provided to her and also St. Croix Hospice for caring for her in the last weeks of her life. Her immediate family is so thankful for our wonderful extended family and friends for all their kindness, love and support. https://www.youtube.com/@hillcrestumc2114
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