Arleen Eleanora Lacey

Traverse City - Arleen Eleanora Lacey, 86, of Traverse City, passed away July 9, 2012, at Munson Medical Center.

Arleen was born on September 28,1925, in Hartford, WI, to the late Frank and Lena (Sell) Spielvogel. Arleen received secretarial training at Milwaukee Business Institute following graduation from Waukesha High School, and she served in multiple secretarial roles in education and health services during her professional career. Arleen enjoyed her retirement years in both southern Florida and northern Michigan.

Arleen was a woman of energy and an enthusiasm for living. As a young woman, Arleen "tore up the tennis court," a passion that earned her the nickname "Speedy" during her high school days in Waukesha. It was not uncommon, during her later years, to find Arleen fixed and immovable before her television set when tennis season began, ready to follow the fortunes of her favorite players.

Arleen's enjoyment in living was also evident in her love of travel. In her lifetime, Arleen visited such far-flung places as Kenya and Canada; Sweden and Switzerland; and Greece, Norway, and England. Arleen's wanderlust was one of her greatest gifts to her children, who often served as her travel companions and fellow globe trekkers.
Never was Arleen happier, though, than when she was gathered 'round a table with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, enjoying a simple dinner or a holiday feast. It was at these times that Arleen's quiet kindness and generous spirit were most visible. Whether through a hearty "Hello," a warm embrace, or an encouraging word, Arleen was quick to communicate her affection to those dear to her.

Arleen will be sorely missed by all who knew her but most especially by her children, whose lives were enriched by her word and deed.

Arleen is preceded in death by husband, Richard Lacey, and daughter-in-law, Heidi Irving Lacey. She is survived by daughters Margo Sirrine, of Traverse City, MI; Marsha Chapman, of Oxford, MI; Marlene Dennis, of Traverse City, MI; Martha Hornback, of Marion, IA; Marla Doss, of Bradenton, FL; son, Mark Lacey, of Traverse City, MI; and grandchildren Robert Sirrine, John Sirrine, Abbie (Sirrine) Stoner; Brandon Hornback; Marrek Lacey; and Lacey Doss.

Private family services will be at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Interment will be at St. Joseph's Cemetery on Old Mission Peninsula.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Paralyzed Veterans of America.