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Arlene Hulda Welgraven, age 87, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, S.D.
Funeral services will be held Friday, May 9 at 12 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls.
Arlene was born on April 4, 1938, in Woodstock, Minn., the only daughter of August and Anna Rotzoll. She grew up on her parents’ farm, graduating from Pipestone High School in 1956. Following graduation, she attended the Secretary School at Mankato State Teachers College.
Arlene met the love of her life, Henry Welgraven, on a blind date, and the two united in marriage on June 30, 1957. They made their home in Sioux Falls, and Arlene began working at Sioux Valley Milk Producers. In later years, she joined the office of Connie Buskohl, CPA, where she formed cherished friendships and remained a steady and familiar part-time presence until 2024.
Music was one of Arlene’s greatest joys, especially contemporary Christian music. For many years, she volunteered at Sioux Falls’ annual LifeLight Festival, enjoying both the concerts and the chance to help at the merchandise tables.
A longtime member of Zion Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls, Arlene’s faith was central to her life. She was active in Bible studies and volunteered with the church’s German sausage cooking team, traveling to other congregations to serve and fellowship.
She also found joy in gardening, walking and hiking with friends, traveling on bus tours across the country and faithfully attending her grandchildren’s school events.
Arlene was known for her unassuming nature, her quiet generosity and her deep love for her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry, in 1996.
She is survived by her children, Steve Welgraven (fiancé Tondi Sorenson) and Julie Holmes (Marty); grandchildren Kelsey Holmes, Brandon Holmes (Lynnea) and Kaylie Sorenson; and great-granddaughter Myla Holmes.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the general fund of missionofchrist.org/ (an organization that supports international missionaries) — or a charity of your choice.
Arlene graciously donated her body to USD School of Medicine with hope to help find a cure for her bile duct cancer.
(Heritage Funeral Home,
Sioux Falls)