Arlene Kalaf

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Arlene Kalaf, 85, passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Arlene was born on April 5, 1940, in St Elizabeth, Missouri, to Joseph Conrad and Clara Jurgensmeyer.
Arlene graduated salutatorian from St. Elizabeth High School where she was a cheerleader and played on the girls basketball team. After graduation, she was awarded a scholarship to the University of Missouri and attended for a year there, an experience she fondly remembered.
In her early years, Arlene devoted herself to raising her three daughters. Once her children were grown, Arlene went to work for a local ophthalmologist, where she became the office manager. Her warmth and attention to detail was an asset to the growing practice.
Arlene was an active member of the King's Daughters Association, Columbia Women's Club, Assistance League and VAC in Columbia. She and her husband were also avid Missouri Tiger fans, sharing many years rooting for their team together. Arlene's love of community and social connection was matched only by her love of family. She cherished family gatherings, where her famous chicken and dumplings and homemade sourdough bread were always requested; a good glass of wine was never far from reach.
As a grandmother, Arlene created lasting memories with her grandchildren through her annual back-to-school shopping trips. Whether helping them pick out new shoes or treating them to lunch afterward, she turned ordinary moments into treasured traditions.
Arlene was preceded in death by brothers Ambrose, Virgil and Robert Jurgensmeyer, and sister, Judith Lewis. She is survived by her sisters LaVerne Dubbert and Emogene Jurgensmeyer, and brothers Joseph Jurgensmeyer, and Charlie Jurgensmeyer.
She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Elias "Linnie" Kalaf, and their three daughters: Kimberly Blackburn (David), Monica Barton (Breck), and Sheila Stewart (Chad). Arlene was a devoted grandmother to Kayla Stutz (Tyler), Luke Blackburn, Anne Blackburn, Sean Blackburn, Chas Barbee (Amanda), Joseph Barbee, Jackson Barbee, Austin Stewart, and Ashley Stewart, and great-grandmother to Molly and Adam Stutz. Her love for each of them was deep, joyful, and constant.
Arlene's memory will live on in every family celebration and every shared toast in her honor. She will be missed beyond words.
The family extends its thanks to the remarkable caregivers at The Westbury and St. Croix Hospice.
Memorial contributions in Arlene's memory can be made to The Alzheimer's Association by clicking this link or you can donate by mail at Alzheimer's Association Attn: Donor Services, 225 N Michigan Ave, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601. If donating by mail please include a note indicating that the donation is in memory of Arlene Kalaf so the family can be notified of the donation.
A Rosary service for Arlene will be held at 9:30am on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Drive, Columbia, MO. Visitation begins at 10:00am, followed by a memorial Mass at 11:00am. Lunch will follow in Flanagan Hall at the church.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, Missouri 65203. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.parkermillard.com