Arlene L. Rajala

MARQUETTE, MI – Arlene Larena Rajala, age 91, a cherished matriarch and pillar of her community, peacefully entered eternal life Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at Brookridge Heights Assisted Living Facility.
Born September 13, 1932, in Escanaba, a daughter of Henry and Larena (Horchner) Koehler, Arlene was raised in Wells Township and graduated from Escanaba High School, Class of 1950. She continued her education at Northern Michigan College, earning her teaching certificate in 1954. Her personal life flourished alongside her academic achievements, as she married the love of her life, Harry Rajala, on June 16, 1956. The young couple's journey took a turn when Harry was drafted into the Army, prompting a move to Kentucky. Upon Harry's honorable discharge, the couple returned to Marquette, where Arlene embarked on a fulfilling career at Messiah Lutheran Church. Starting as a secretary, she retired as a respected parish administrator. During her working career, Arlene also served as a deacon, touching many lives through her work. Arlene had a zest for life which was evident in her younger years as an avid participant in softball, volleyball, golf, tennis, and bowling. Her competitive spirit was matched only by her joy in watching her children and grandchildren engage in sports, a pastime that brought her immense pride and happiness. However, it was her role as mother and grandmother that truly defined her, as family was the center of her universe. In addition to their being active members of Messiah Lutheran Church, Arlene and Harry have been faithful NMU sports fans since their student days at Northern.
Arlene is survived by her husband of 67 years, Harry; and their three children, Peggy (Jim Eckardt) Dewitt of Marquette, Brian (Denise) Rajala of Waukesha, WI, and Janice (Gary) Johnstone of Negaunee Township. She was a beloved grandmother to Michelle (Rodney) Parkkonen, Sara (Craig) Drummond, Kathy Dewitt, Joshua (Stephanie) Rajala, Andrew (Megan) Coombs, Megan (Cory) Schober, Betsy (Quinn) Rajala, Kylie (Giuseppe) Cortese, Brandi Rajala, Keith (Lindsay) Johnstone, and Kirsten (Endish) Tedla; and a great-grandmother to ten great-grandchildren. Arlene also leaves behind her brother-in-law, Kris (Beverly) Skoglund; sister-in-law, Roberta Koehler; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Rodney; a granddaughter, Beth Ann Rajala; sister, Maxine Mattson; and her brother, Donald Koehler.
Friends are invited to gather and celebrate Arlene's life at Messiah Lutheran Church on Monday, February 26, where visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am. Rev. Dr. Andrew Plocher will officiate. A luncheon in Magnuson Hall will follow the service, providing an opportunity for those who knew and loved Arlene to share memories and fellowship.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers of Brookridge Heights Assisted Living and Upper Peninsula Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate care in Arlene's final days.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Messiah Lutheran Church, 305 W. Magnetic Street, Marquette, MI 49855.
Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com