Frances Arlene "Arlene" Janssen

Frances Arlene Janssen, 91, of Redding, California, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025. In her final days, she was surrounded by family and friends-sharing stories, laughing, singing, and reciting Scripture together. Everyone was able to hear joy, faith, and love embedded in her spirit and words. She was full of light, and now she is with Christ our Lord and Savior.

Arlene was born on October 28, 1933, in Silverton, Oregon, to Nels and Frances Torresdal. From an early age, she was known for her sense of humor, strong work ethic, and lifelong dream of becoming a teacher.

She attended Hazel Dell, a one-room country school, and graduated from Silverton High School with the Class of 1951. Although she had always planned to attend college, financial challenges delayed her dream. During her senior year, Arlene passed the civil service exam and began working for the State of Oregon as a clerk typist, later promoted to stenographer.

After marrying and raising four children, Arlene remained determined to fulfill her dream of teaching. Upon moving to Redding, California, she attended Shasta Community College and completed extension courses through Chico State University to earn her bachelor's degree and teaching credential. She went on to teach in the Lutheran school system for many years and later received her colloquy from Christ College Irvine. Arlene retired after 28 years of dedicated service as a grade school teacher.

Arlene cherished her family, friends, and colleagues, always making an effort to stay connected. She often visited friends in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, bringing warmth and companionship wherever she went. She loved playing cards-especially bridge-and enjoyed swing dancing. At church, she played in the handbell choir and helped
organize preschool fundraisers. She also delighted in planning birthday parties, tending her garden, traveling, volunteering, and hosting family gatherings. Her church family and community were truly central to her life.

Arlene will be lovingly remembered by her sisters: Rose Marie, Caroline, and Ruth; her children: Renee (Kenneth), Jill (Martin), Pepper (Ann), and Annette (Dino); ten grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her brothers, David and Don.

Arlene's Christian faith, warmth, generosity, and joyful spirit will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 11, at 10:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Hilltop Drive, Redding, California. Following the service, lunch will be served, and all are welcome to stay and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Preschool in Redding, CA.