Arlene D. Hanken

Arlene A. Hanken, 97, a longtime Rochester, MN resident died on Sunday (March 10, 2024) of natural causes at Benedictine Living Community in Byron, MN, where she had been a resident since 2017.   

Arlene Adeline Hanken was born on October 14, 1926 in Stewartville to Carl and Clara (Christgau) Hanken. She grew up on the family farm in rural Stewartville, attended school and graduated from Stewartville H.S. in 1944. After high school, Arlene attended Business College for one year in Winona, MN. She was employed at Mayo Clinic in Rochester as a medical secretary where she enjoyed a 48 year career. Arlene was a longtime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church where she was active with the Altar Guild. Arlene was involved in many Mayo and community memberships: Mayo Clinic Friendship Club, Friends of Mayowood Residence and Historic Sites, Heritage House Associates, American Legion Auxiliary- Stewartville, Olmsted County Historical Society, Stewartville Area Historical Society, Paws and Claws Humane Society, Methodist Hospital Auxiliary Mayo Clinic Volunteers and Southeastern Minnesota Collectors Club.

Arlene was an independent, classy lady. She loved spending time with family and having fun. When visiting with Arlene, I would leave saying, “Now you be good!” and she would reply “Why?” She had a feisty spirit right up to the end. Love you Arlene.

The Hanken Family would like to thank Mayo Hospice and all the Staff at Benedictine Living Community for their years of devotion and loving care of Arlene.

Arlene is survived by her niece - Deb(Kerry) Linbo of Byron, Mn. and nephew - Terry(Darcy) Hanken of Grand Meadow, Mn./ 5 great- nieces and nephews - Tony Linbo and Adam(Emily) Linbo, Brynn (Chris) Meyer, Ethan(Maggie) Hanken and Hailey (Kyle) Brown. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother and sister-in-law - Elman and Margie Hanken.

The memorial service for Arlene will be at 11:00 A.M. on Friday (March 15, 2024) at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Stewartville with Rev. Justin Kumfer officiating. A time of visitation for family and friends will take place 1 hr. prior to the service at the church on Friday morning. Burial will follow in High Forest Cemetery in High Forest, Minnesota. Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray FH in Stewartville. On-line condolences and memories of Arlene are welcome at www.griffin-

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