Arlene A. Blay, 91, of Sheboygan, passed away Saturday evening, December 13, 2025, at the Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice. Born June 20, 1934, in Wisconsin, Arlene was a daughter of the late Henry and Leona (Lembke) Ostermann. She graduated from Marion High School. Following High school Arlene joined and proudly served in the U.S. Marines during the Korean Conflict.
On June 20, 1953, she was united in marriage to Ralph J. Blay at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sheboygan. They were married for 46 years before Ralph preceded her in death on July 8, 1999.
Arlene worked at Sunny Ridge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in all aspects of the facility, ranging from housekeeping to the activities department. Arlene loved people and caring for the residents at Sunny Ridge, so much that after retiring, she volunteered full-time there in the activities department well into her 80’s.
Arlene had a heart of gold and was always there when people needed her. Her family was her pride and joy. Creating lasting memories with them was her passion. Arlene was also an excellent cook known for her fried chicken, a great baker and talented embroider.
She is going to be greatly missed by her family and all who knew her.
Arlene is survived by her daughter Annette (Wayne) Blanke, grandchildren; Zachery Blanke, Chelsea (Nick) Shireman, Aaron (fiancee Jane Peterson) Blanke, and Brandon Blanke. She is further survived by her great-granchildren Marie and Micah Shireman and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Besides her parents, Henry and Leona, and her husband, Ralph, she was preceded in death by her grandson Christian Blanke and five brothers and sisters.
A Celebration of Arlene’s Life will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025 from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM at Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1132 Superior Ave., Sheboygan. Military Honors will follow at 6:00 PM. Interment will take place in Sunrise Memorial Gardens.
Please visit our website to share your stories and leave your condolences for the family www.olsonfuneralhome.info.
The Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Arlene’s arrangements.
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