ARLENE MARIE (DUMMER) BESEMANN

ARLENE MARIE

(DUMMER) BESEMANN

Nov. 19, 1926-March 30, 2025

Arlene Marie (Dummer) Besemann of Edina, MN, beloved sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025. She was 98. Born Nov. 19, 1926, in Fairfax, MN, to Dr. William Martin Dummer and Stella Elizabeth Walser Dummer, Arlene was the fifth of eight children and the first daughter after four older brothers: Jerry, Stan, Bob, and Don. She was later joined by her younger siblings Ralph, Marge, and Tom. Arlene’s father passed away in 1937, leaving her mother, Stella, to raise their large family during the Great Depression.

Her ancestors were early settlers in the Minnesota River Valley, residing in West Newton Township near New Ulm, MN. They passed down a legacy of hard work, perseverance, resilience, and community involvement that continued throughout her lifetime. All six of Arlene’s brothers served in the U.S. military during World War II and the Korean War, a point of great family pride.

After graduating from Fairfax High School and the Minnesota School of Business, she enjoyed a long career, retiring as a compensation systems manager at the Pillsbury Company after 35 years.

In 1960, she married Herman “Tiny” Besemann; they later divorced. Arlene traveled extensively across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, recording her journeys in detailed journals. She was a proud member of Epsilon Sigma Alpha; an ethnic dining club; and an avid supporter of the arts. Known for her sharp wit, adventurous spirit, and generosity, Arlene left a lasting impression on her nieces, nephews, and all who knew her.

Arlene is preceded in death by her parents and siblings. Visitation is 10 a.m. Saturday, May 10, followed by an 11 a.m. funeral Mass at the Church of St. Edward, 9401 Nesbitt Ave. S., Bloomington, Minn. Lunch will follow. The service will be livestreamed at stedwardschurch.org/funerals. Private burial at St. George Cemetery. Memorials are preferred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Arrangements are with Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel, Edina MN. Online www.Washburn-McReavy.com