Arlene Kluesner, age 88, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, at Lafayette Hospital & Clinics in Darlington. Born on October 23, 1937, in Prairie du Chien, Arlene was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and faithful servant whose life was rooted in music, faith, and family. After graduating in 1955 from Prairie du Chien High School, Arlene married the love of her life, Ralph Alphonse Kluesner, on May 19, 1956, at St. Gabriel's Parish. Together they built a beautiful life in Darlington, where they raised their family and became pillars of the community.

Arlene dedicated many years of service as a deputy county clerk for Lafayette County, Wisconsin, where she was respected for her professionalism, warmth, and steadfast commitment to helping others. Her work touched countless lives, reflecting her strong sense of duty and integrity.

Her love for music and her Catholic faith defined much of her life. A cherished member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Arlene served faithfully on the Parish Council, including as past president, and gave generously of her time as a catechism teacher. She was the spirited choir director of the Glory Singers and shared her remarkable vocal talents not only locally but on a national stage, singing at the White House’s Ellipse and the U.S. Capitol. Closer to home, she uplifted her parish community through the church choir and by singing at countless weddings, funerals, and Sunday Masses. Through every note, she ministered with grace and joy.

Arlene was also a charter member of the Darlington Optimist Club and enjoyed many happy hours playing cards with her beloved card club friends. Above all, she treasured her family. She took immense pride in her children and grandchildren, always celebrating their accomplishments and making sure they knew how deeply they were loved.

Arlene is survived by her loving husband, Ralph; her children, Michael (Jackie) Kluesner of Prairie Du Chein, WI, Larry (Betsy) Kluesner of LaCrosse, WI, Jeff (Ann) Kluesner of Cambridge, IL, Barb Kluesner of Evansville, WI, and Paul (Darci) Kluesner of Blue Mounds, WI; nine grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; her sister, Marion Hanson; and her sister-in-law, Harlene Husted.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Henry and Stella Elizabeth (Straiton) Husted; her siblings, Doris DeMuth, Robert Husted, and William Husted; and her brothers-in-law, Robert DeMuth and Roger Hansen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church (104 E. Harriet St., Darlington) with Fr. William Vernon officiating. Burial will be in Holy Rosary Cemetery. A visitation will be held Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from 3:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. at the Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington (508 Park Place, Darlington) and again on Thursday from 10:00 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. at the church. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.

Arlene Kluesner

October 23, 1937 - February 18, 2026

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