Arlene May Simacek

Arlene May Simacek, age 69, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2026. She was born on December 23, 1956, in Bay City, Michigan, to Robert and Phyllis Filcek.

Arlene worked as a cashier at Walmart for 14 years, where she built connections with customers and those around her. She had a loving and dedicated heart, a direct personality, and a wonderful ability to build lasting friendships. Family and friends meant the world to Arlene, and she made the most of every opportunity to spend time with the people she loved.

Arlene met Gary through a mutual friend, and the rest was history. Both having been married before, they found a special happiness together and quickly discovered just how much fun life could be when shared with the right person. They were married on February 15, 2016, and built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Together, they enjoyed camping trips in Holcombe, Wisconsin, relaxing around bonfires, taking boat rides, traveling on Caribbean cruises, and gathering with neighbors for garage parties. No matter what they were doing, Arlene and Gary knew how to enjoy life together.

Arlene especially loved holidays and went above and beyond to make Easter and Christmas memorable. She delighted in decorating and making each celebration special for her family and friends. Easter was particularly meaningful, as she enjoyed the neighborhood Easter egg hunt, food and specialty drinks with friends and neighbors. She also cherished time with her beloved Chocolate Lab, Riley, who was never far from her side. Whether relaxing at home or enjoying a boat ride, Riley loved sitting right beside Arlene, sharing in the moments she enjoyed most.

Above all, Arlene loved her family. She treasured time spent with her daughters, stepdaughter, and grandchildren, taking joy in being part of their lives and making memories together. Her love, loyalty, and spirited personality made her a special presence in the lives of those who knew her.

Arlene is survived by her loving husband, Gary Simacek; her daughters, Jessie (Jeff) Morgan, and Angie Rajnigandha; her stepdaughter, Stefanie (Justin Rossow) Simacek; and her grandchildren, Adrie Morgan, Kaylee Morgan, Alexandra Rucinski, Alyssa Rossow, and Colton Rossow.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Phyllis Filcek.

A celebration of Arlene's life will be held by family at a later date. Please check back for additional information as arrangements are finalized.

Funeral services are entrusted to O'Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hudson. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-386-3725