ARLENE C. HEINZ

ARLENE C. HEINZ

Arlene C. Heinz received her angel wings on December 17, 2024. She was 93 years old.

Arlene was born August 26, 1931 to William and Ida (Zimprich) Pfeifer.

Arlene grew up on her parents’ farm near Jessie, ND, except when she attended St. Catherine’s Catholic Boarding School in Valley City, ND, where she graduated from high school. She was essentially her dad’s right-hand helper on the farm.

At the age of 18, Arlene married Frank J. Heinz on October 4, 1949, after he returned from the military service. They settled on a farm just south of Jessie, ND. They had four children whom they sent to Cooperstown Public School. They worked hard, but Arlene never seemed to mind. She and Frank were married for 73 years. Today they are survived by three adult children, 12 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

Arlene—Grandma—found a way to always be available, whether it was hosting summer stays or watching over the grandchildren when needed. The toy closet was always ready for play, trips to the library were frequent, and stories were lovingly read aloud. She made favorite desserts to celebrate the “just because” moments, and at the very least, there were always “Grandma cookies” on hand. She attended all school events, games, concerts, prom walks. Whatever was happening she was there. Her heart and door were always open.

In 1981, Arlene and Frank retired to Cooperstown and built their home. Arlene enjoyed living in town and was a frequent visitor to the library to check out the latest bestsellers. She helped at the nursing home fixing hair. Would step in to work at the flower shop when needed. Volunteered to deliver “Meals on Wheels. Arlene was dedicated to her family, church and community.

She loved having morning coffee with friends at the “coffee table” in the cafe. She enjoyed playing golf and watching golf. She enjoyed playing cards at the clubhouse and loved bowling (she was a great bowler). Arlene never was one who said no to helping others and trying something new. Arlene was actively involved with St. Lawrence church and St. George church. Providing meals for weddings, funerals and other events. As a member of the Ladies Aid Group where she served as treasurer for 20 years and finally retired around the age of 90.

Arlene was a strong, hardworking woman who never seemed to slow down. She never complained and considered herself fortunate. She was a sociable, loving person who will be dearly missed. We take comfort in knowing that she is once again with her family—she is home. We know she is keeping watch over all of us.

Arlene is preceded in death by her husband Frank, her son Michael, her parents William and Ida Pfeifer, her sister Willis (Sister Margaret Rose). Survived by daughters Brenda (Jan) VonBank, Barbara (Phil) Kameo and son Jeffery Heinz. Twelve grandchildren, twenty-five great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral mass will be on Saturday, May 31, 2025, Saturday at St. George Catholic Church Cooperstown ND at 2:00 p.m. with burial immediately following.