1939-2026
Arlene Jane Friesen
September 7, 1939 – March 24, 2026
Arlene Jane Friesen was born on September 7, 1939, in Goessel, Kansas to Jake and Sylvia Flaming. On March 24, 2026, following a brief stay in the hospital, she passed away at age 86.
Arlene was a devoted wife to her high school sweetheart, Melvin R. Friesen. Melvin and Arlene attended Grace Bible Institute in Omaha and were married at Zoar Mennonite Brethren Church in rural Inman, Kansas on August 28, 1958. She was a woman of strong faith. She placed her trust in Jesus Christ as her Savior as a young girl and became a lifelong student of God's Word. She filled many prayer journals for not only her family but also for her church family. She served her church well, leading Bible studies, playing the organ, and serving many meals. She was a wonderful mother to Gregory, Barbara, and Beverly. As a skilled homemaker, she also ran a window treatment business from her home. She loved being a grandmother and developed a love for sports after watching her children and grandchildren play. In later years, she spent many evenings watching the Huskers, Bluejays, Royals, and Chiefs with her husband.
Arlene is survived by her husband, Melvin Friesen; her three children: Gregory (Terri) Friesen of Bellevue, NE, and their children Brett (Kelly) Friesen, Kayla (Caleb) Coffee, and Jayna (Ben) Sheets; Barbara (Steve) Benton of Cedar Rapids, IA, and their children Grant (Jessie) Benton, Ethan (Kenzy) Benton, and Shane (Holly) Benton; and Beverly (Mike) Dick of Munich, ND, and their children Logan (Eric) Herman, Lexi (Ethan) Weers, and Wyatt (Seira) Henry; as well as 28 great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Jim (Karyl) Flaming, Darrel (Terry) Flaming, and Janice Lang. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to her family. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A Visitation will be held from 6–8 pm on Sunday, March 29, at Braman Mortuay in Millard, NE.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, March 30, at Community Bible Church. The service will be livestreamed at cbcomaha.org/memorial
Memorials can be given to Community Bible Church or Cornerstone Christian School of Bellevue, NE
