Arlene Schaefer

Arlene Christine Schaefer, age 90, of Billings, MT, formerly of Plevna, MT, passed away Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at Rimview at St. John’s United, Billings, MT, following a short illness.

Born in Virgil, South Dakota, September 26, 1932, to Edward and Christina (Krauzs) Koschel, Arlene was the fifth child in a family of seven children. When Arlene was 17 months old, her mother died. Following her mother’s death, Arlene was sent to Plevna, MT, to be raised by her maternal grandparents Chris and Christine Krauzs. She attended first grade at Christman Country School, then continued her education at Plevna Public Schools. She was Salutatorian of her high school class at Plevna High School.

While living in the Plevna area, Arlene met and married Jake Schaefer in January 1950. To be legal and 18 years of age, they listed her as being born in 1931 on their marriage license. They lived on Jake’s parents farm south of Plevna, and they farmed with Jake’s brother, Otto Schaefer.

Arlene lived and worked on the farm for 37 years. After the death of Jake and his brother Otto, Arlene sold the farm and moved to Billings in 1987. Arlene proudly served as a volunteer at Billings Clinic for more than 30 years. She enjoyed playing cards, traveling, having coffee with her friends, and visiting and spoiling the grandkids.

Arene is survived by her three children: Jerry (Kay) Schaefer of Bozeman , Carol ( Jerry) Callen of Billings, and Dennis (Sue) Schaefer of Billings; six grandchildren: Mark (Sara) Schaefer of Roberts, Michelle Schaefer (Connar) of Casper, WY, Starla (Bryce) Anderson of Fargo ,ND, Jeanie (Avi) Barat of San Diego, CA, Matthew Schaefer of Broadus, and Melissa Schaefer (Randy) of San Antonio, TX; five great grandchildren: Emerson Schaefer of Roberts, Alicia Anderson (Buck) of Carrboro, NC, Tyler Anderson (Olivia) of Kearney, NE, Kailash Barat and Tej Barat of San Diego, CA; her brother, Gilbert (Doris) Koschel; her sister, Marlys (Harry) Shryock; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Jake; brothers Marvin, Orvall, and Douglas; and sister Lorina.

Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Billings Evangelical Bible Church or to St. John’s United.