Arlene Joyce Baldinger, 88, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2024. She was born in Mesick, Michigan on November 14, 1935, to Wallace and Violet (Blemmings) McMahen and grew up in the Detroit area with her eight siblings. Being the second youngest, she was used to the pace of a large family that she carried over into her adult life.

She returned to the Mesick area, met and married the love of her life, worked as a telephone operator, a teacher's assistant in the Mesick Consolidated Schools and as a sales person at Joseph's True Value Hardware. She belonged to the Lion's Club, was a longtime member of the Women's Club, an active member in her church and a Cub Scout leader. After retirement, she also spent many years as a Foster Grandparent at the Mesick Consolidated Schools which brought her great joy.

She also loved to cook, bake, and share the results of her efforts; work in the vegetable and flower gardens and enjoyed being outside with her family. She will be missed by her family and friends.

Arlene was preceded in death by: her parents; 7 of her siblings; her granddaughter, Haley Baldinger; and her husband, Dick Baldinger.

She is survived by: her son, Bill (Lori) Baldinger; her daughter, Linda (Steve) Park; her 7 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; and her faithful furry friend Mr. Gray.

A graveside service will be held at the Sherman-Mesick Cemetery in June. Details will be available in the next few weeks.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com