She was born May 31, 1948, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late Onufry and Helen (Cherek) Charnecki. Arlene graduated from St. Joan Antida High School, Milwaukee. She began working at a bank in Milwaukee eventually retiring after 33 years at Wausau Insurance Co/Liberty Mutual Ins.
On August 26th, 1967, she was united in marriage to Leonard Wilkowski at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church in Bevent. He preceded her in death on July 30th, 2006.
Arlene loved spending time with her family and cherished moments with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She crocheted numerous baby blankets and afghans. She loved taking pictures and was always the family event photographer, and unofficial wedding photographer, often sharing her photos. With her quick wit, she always appreciated a clever joke for giggles. Arlene also loved music – procuring a modest collection of oldies, pop, country, and rock. She had a special knack for music trivia. Arlene loved the Green Bay Packers and cheered on the Milwaukee Brewers too.
Arlene is survived by two children, Jerrold (Lynn) Wilkowski and Cindy (William) Brophy; grandchildren, Kyle (Courtney) Wilkowski, Skylin (Josh) Harris and Taylor (Darian) Stankowski; four great-grandchildren, Oli, Bliss, Kylie and Elijah. She is also remembered by sisters-in-law, Adeline Domask, Jeannette Gotchy, Natalie Wilkowski and Yvonne Wilkowski, and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leonard; brother, Larry Charnecki; brothers-in-law, George Wilkowski, Edwin Wilkowski and Marvin Wilkowski.
Private family memorial services were held. Burial was in St. Ladislaus Cemetery, Bevent. Sister Mary Ellen Diermeier officiated.
