Arlene Boetcher

Contrary to family belief, Arlene Louise Boetcher did not outlive everyone. The shocked family failed to consider the factors that led to her death: lima beans, the 2020 Trump defeat and an invisible virus.  She passed away Thursday, April 8, 2021 at Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital in Portage at the age of 85.

She worked at the Marquette County Courthouse for over three decades as Deputy Register of Deeds, Deputy County Treasurer, Deputy Clerk of Courts, EMS Secretary and drove many years for Commission on Aging.  However, she is more notorious in her side business of baby snatching. One could always find her with a baby (or 3) on her lap and a hat on her head, or in the nursery (of the house she just broke into) rocking a baby.

Arlene will be remembered for her character, wit, boundless energy, and compassion. Her love of animals was remarkable. She was always giving of herself and loved helping others.

Hobbies included: taking care of the stray cats that “she didn’t have”, teaching children terrifying nursery rhymes, sneaking food into your cupboards, over feeding children, arguing politics, dragging dead animals off the road (yes you read that right), busting a move on the dance floor, and mostly loving and caring for her family and friends.

Born in Racine Wisconsin to Charles F. and Lillian (Udell) Boetcher. Arlene is survived by children: Vicki (Jerry), Sheila (Roger), Gary (Varsha), Kim (Dennis) and 21 Grandkids, 33 Great Grandkids, 6 Great Great Grandchildren (we think we counted them all and she never missed a birthday), brother, Chuck, sister, Gloria, Cousin Darrell, many nieces and nephews, friends: Fae and Carrol and lastly her dog, Daisy.

Arlene is preceded in death by her son, Rick, brothers: Steve and Jack, cousin, Chris, husbands: Ken Brandies, Theodore Eckstein and Dick DeRosier as well as special companion of 20 years, Ashford “Bud” Hire.

Special thank you to all the staff at Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital for their extra care during her stay.

May we live life each day so that our passing breaks as many hearts as hers did.

A memorial service for both Arlene Boetcher and Ashford “Bud” Hire will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at the Big Spring Congregational Church, 373 Golden Ct , Wisconsin Dells , WI 53965.  Graveside committal and luncheon will follow the service.

Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service of Oxford and Montello is honored to be serving the family. www.CrawfordFH.com