Karen "Kay" E. Arneson

Kay Arneson

Karen "Kay" Elizabeth Arneson, age 89, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026. Born October 14, 1936, to Norman and Frances Hammermeister, Kay was raised in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin. She was a 1954 graduate of Whitefish Bay High School and studied nursing at Hamline University in St. Paul, MN. On August 23, 1958, she married Eugene (Gene) Arneson at Fox Point Lutheran Church about a year after meeting him at a YMCA dance. After raising their family in Whitefish Bay, Kay and Gene moved to Tulip Lane in Greendale, which was Gene’s hometown.

A generous and selfless caregiver, Kay was devoted to her family, adored her two granddaughters, and enjoyed many lifelong friendships. Kay is now reunited with Gene, who passed away in 2016. She is survived by sons Jim (Erin) and Tom (Julia), granddaughters Laura and Elinor, brother Tom (Connie) Hammermeister, sister-in-law Eleanor Arneson, and other dear family and friends.

Kay always put her family first, but she had a successful career outside the home. After working as a bookkeeper at Le Club Tennis Club and other jobs, she was hired at the Columbia Hospital Credit Union. For 20 years, Kay really was the credit union and became its president. She loved helping people with their finances, whether it be saving for the holidays or a vacation, or getting a loan for a car. After retiring from Columbia Hospital, she brought her fierce advocacy skills to her volunteer work with “Call for Action,” an organization that helps individuals victimized by fraud and general consumer issues. She had a strong sense of justice and right and wrong, and she would dig in until she was able to solve the problem for the consumer.

An avid reader, Kay always had a book with her, often a mystery or detective novel. She cherished her card and dinner group, which they maintained for over 60 years, and Kay and Gene played Bridge and Sheepshead. She learned to play the organ and joined the Hammond Organ Society. Always good at crafts, in 2001, she took Rosemaling classes, became an active member of the Sons of Norway, and continued to participate in her Rosemaling group at the Norway House even after she could no longer paint. 

Donations may be made in Kay’s memory to the Wisconsin Humane Society. Kay loved dogs, especially her Springer Spaniel Scout, who was the best dog ever!

A Special Thanks goes to the Staff of New Perspectives, along with Unity Hospice, for the great and friendly care she received.

Memorial Visitation will be held at Max A Sass - Greenridge Chapel on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 11:00 AM until the time of service at 12:00 Noon.