Arlene Marie Knudson

HOUSTONArlene Marie (Elmburg) Knudson, 85 of Houston, MN passed away August 2, 2015 at Valley View Healthcare & Rehab in Houston.Arlene lived a full life, staying active until the end. She was a warm and loving person with a deep faith who was proud of her family. She made a difference for her family and others through a gentle and supportive presence. She lived 47 years in the Houston area.She was born on December 31, 1929 at the Swedish Hospital in Minneapolis. She grew up in south Minneapolis, along with a few years in Detroit Michigan. A graduate of Washburn High School in 1948, Arlene attended the University of Minnesota, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1952. She worked at Daytons during college to pay for her education. Other activities involved the Minneapolis Choralaires and Gamma Omicron Beta Sorority that provided a rich experience.Arlene married Ernest on May 9, 1953 in Minneapolis at the Diamond Lake Lutheran Church. They were married for 62 years. Her family, profession, friends and helping others always remained her focus. She worked as a Dietician at the Fairview Hospital (Minneapolis, MN), Franklin General Hospital (Hampton, IA), and Tweeten Lutheran Hospital (Spring Grove, MN) - the latter for 35 years. Her family was always her priority. She is survived by her husband, Ernest, and children Kathy (Pat of St. Cloud, MN), Todd (Ellen of Phoenix, AZ), Brad (Jane of Waverly, IA), Brian (Barbara of Chanhassen, MN), Kristine (Guy of Shorewood, MN), Terry (Jane of Morristown, IN) and Lee (Julie of Wichita, KS), along with 15 grandchildren and 3 step-grandchildren. Education was always an emphasis for herself and her family - completing 19 undergraduate and 9 graduate degrees to date.Various activities were important. She was involved in her church, volunteered at Valley View, and served as a 4-H leader (Sheldon Spartans). She enjoyed gardening, sewing, and birdwatching, along with cheering on her favorite sports teams (Vikings and Twins). The holidays provided a special time for her baking, homemade cookie trays, and Swedish traditions.She was preceded in death by her parents, Gladys and Roy, her brother, Richard, and her sister, Carol. A celebration of Arlene's life will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, August 7, 2015 at the Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, 204 South Chase Street, Houston, MN 55943 with the Reverend Leonard Liptack officiating. Visitation will take place 5-8 p.m., Thursday, August 6, 2015 at the Hoff Funeral Home, 710 E Cedar St, Houston, MN 55943, as well as 1 hour prior to the service at the church. She will be laid to rest at Stone Church Cemetery following the service. Memorials preferred to the Cross of Christ Lutheran Church.
Tribute video can be found at: videos.lifetributes.com/618599