Arlene Marie Hall

Arlene Marie Hall passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, at the age of 96. She was born on March 5, 1929, in Viroqua, Wisconsin, to Arnold and Isabelle (Hunder) Bakke.

Arlene's early years were spent in the close-knit community of Westby, where she was surrounded by the love of her family. In 1940, at the age of 11, her family moved to Zumbrota, MN, where she later graduated from Zumbrota High School in 1947. Arlene's pursuit of knowledge led her to attend St. Olaf College, after which she worked at an insurance company in the Twin Cities.

A significant milestone in Arlene's school life when she was crowned Homecoming Queen only to be topped by marrying the love of her life, LaVerne Hall, on May 5th, 1951, at North Coon Prairie Lutheran Church. Together, they built a life on the family farm near Westby.

Arlene was always busy with many aspects of the farm, but perhaps her most important title was that of “Bovine Infant Nutritionist,” as she lovingly took on the task of feeding calves. In addition to her responsibilities on the farm, Arlene played a vital role in helping LaVerne run a thriving auction and real estate business. She typed all the sale bills by hand and prepared them for mailing to agricultural businesses across several communities. Arlene also managed the constant flow of phone calls and communication that kept the business running smoothly, balancing it all with grace, efficiency, and a strong sense of commitment.

Tragedy struck in 1979 when LaVerne was critically injured in a plane crash. Arlene's unwavering support during his time in the nursing home until his passing in 1985. After leaving the family farm in 1988, Arlene embraced new chapters of her life with grace, residing at her home in town for 28 years, followed by 1 year at the Nordic Village, 6 years at the Friendship House, and finally Vernon Acres for close to 2 years.

Throughout her life, Arlene's faith-filled and loving nature touched everyone she met. Arlene's life was marked by her devotion to her church and her community. She was a faithful member of Westby Coon Prairie Lutheran Church (WCP) for almost 70 years. She was a regular attendee at WCP Ladies Aide, including 2 years as president. She was also a member of the Lydia Circle. Her interests were many, but she found particular joy in planning family reunions and helping them run smoothly, immersing herself in books, being a long-time member of the Vernon County Homemakers, and cherishing every moment with her family and grandchildren.

After Arlene's father passed away, her mother moved to Westby to be closer to her. Arlene took exceptional care of her mother, checking in on her daily and staying in close contact through frequent phone calls. Since her mother never drove, Arlene made sure to take her to all her appointments. For over 30 years, she diligently oversaw her mother’s care and well-being, offering constant support.

For the last several years, Arlene spent a lot of time looking at photo albums and newspaper clippings, finding comfort while reliving family memories. Arlene’s Norwegian heritage was a deeply cherished part of her identity. A proud member of the Sons of Norway for many years, she found great joy in celebrating and preserving her cultural roots. In the early 2000s, she took a memorable trip to Norway, where she had the meaningful opportunity to visit with relatives and connect with her family's origins. Arlene also made several heartfelt trips to Norskedalen with her grandchildren, sharing traditions and stories to ensure that the legacy of her Norwegian heritage would continue for generations to come.

Arlene is survived by her sons Mark Hall of Viroqua, Martin Hall of Westby, and Michael (Sheri) Hall of Westby; her grandchildren, Brianna (Peter) Schroeder of Tomah, Krista Hall of Bloomer, WI, Matthew Hall of Westby, and Austin (Martha) Hall of Viroqua; and her great-grandchildren Arlo Vern Schroeder and Allison Marie Hall; her brother Arnold “Mal” (Jeanette) Bakke of OR; her sister Kathryn Hagen of Hudson, WI; 10 nieces and nephews; and other relatives. She leaves behind a family that will forever honor her memory and continue to live by the values she instilled in them.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, LaVerne Hall; her parents, Arnold and Isabelle Bakke; her brother, Karl Bakke and sisters-in-law, Deanna Bakke, Ellen Jane (Walter) Melby; brother-in-law, John Hagen; daughter-in-law, Carol Hall; her cherished grandchildren, Nehemiah and Shawn; her niece, Kathy (Bill) Bandell; and her in-laws, Lindahl and Mabel (Olson) Hall.

A funeral service will take place on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby. A visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until the time of services. Online condolences may be offered at www.vossfh.com.

Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby is serving Arlene’s family.

708 S Main Street

Westby, WI 54667

608/634-2100