Arlene Prater died of metastatic pancreatic cancer after celebrating her 75th birthday, and resided in Zeeland, Mich.,and Wesley Chapel, Fla.
Throughout her battle with cancer , she worried daily about her Superman, Wayne, the love of her life, above her own pain. This selfless love was one of the amazing qualities that Arlene embodied and passed on to her family. From Arlene herself, “Wayne, I have always loved you with all my heart!”
Arlene’s greatest love was her family and she cherished weekly phone conversations with her sister-in-law, Karen. Even in her weakness, that was a call that was never forgotten.
For many years, summers were spent at Oxbow Park followed by Sandy Pines. No matter where she was, friendships blossomed, adding to her list of lifelong friends. The love for warmth, sunshine, and sandy beaches brought Arlene and her Superman to Gulf Shores, Ala., for many winters. She loved the sounds of the ocean, walks on the beaches, and watching the sunset. Arlene enjoyed Mardi Gras parades, collecting all of the beads she could catch, and refreshing herself with Bushwacker drinks.
As years passed, they settled into Terrace Park in Wesley Chapel, Fla. There was not much down time between dances, bingo, garage sales, trips to Busch Gardens, and all of the other activities she loved. Arlene truly lived life to the fullest and enjoyed every moment she spent in flip-flops. She spoke so often about the wonderful friendships she shared in the park.
Arlene also is survived by her children, Julie (Jeremy) Town, Jim Mucha, Connie (Kurt) Kerkstra, Robin (Russ) Mielke, Kim Chase, Brenda (Robert) Bierens, and Steve (Gail) Mucha; as well as 17 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren…and counting!
Arlene was preceded in death by her parents Arnold and Athalene; brother, Donald; son, Mark; and great-granddaughter, Melody Skye. She is survived by sisters Cindy (Dan) Wisniewski and Marge (Doug) Wicks.
At Arlene’s request, no services will be held. The family has requested that remembrances be made in contributions to the Hospice of Holland, 270 Hoover Blvd., Holland, Mich., 49423 in memory of Arlene Prater.
