Age 77

Passed away peacefully on March 14th, 2021, following a courageous battle with cancer. Beloved wife of Lloyd; dear mother to, Scott, Randy (Tara), Jared (Kim); grandmother to, Brennan, Lucas, Tessa, and Andrew; also survived by brother, George (Sharon); sister-in-law, Jane. Predeceased by parents George and Marion, brother Ted. Arlene Marie Schmidt was born January 3rd, 1944 to George and Marion Schmidt in Phoenix AZ. She was welcomed into this world by her brothers, Ted and George. Shortly after Arlene was born, the Schmidt family moved to MN eventually settling into South St. Paul where she attended school. Arlene was a proud graduate of South St. Paul High School. Class of 1962. Shortly after High school she met the love of her life Lloyd Laska on a blind date set-up by her cousin Ray. Arlene and Lloyd tied the knot on August 13th, 1966 and eventually settled down in West St. Paul, MN. Over the years Arlene gave birth to three boys, Scott, Randy, and Jared. Arlene was a full-time homemaker and a very good one at that. She wore many hats in the Laska household and wore them well. Arlene was an excellent cook, seamstress, homemaker, and had a very special talent of knitting and crocheting. Arlene was known to put that talent to use by making several afghans and giving them as gifts. Arlene enjoyed camping with the family over the years taking many road trips with the camper all over the United States. She also had a passion for Minnesota sports teams. Was a die-hard fan of the Twins, North Stars, Wild, and Vikings. Arlene rarely passed up an opportunity to watch them on television. Later in life, Arlene enjoyed the company of her four wonderful grandchildren: Brennan, Lucas, Tessa and Andrew. She often referred to them as “A-BLT”. Arlene hosted many sleepovers with them along with a steady dose of “spoiling them”. Arlene loved her grandkids and would often join them on family outings, attending their sporting events, and even one time at Disney World. As the grandchildren got older, Arlene and Lloyd continued to enjoy their lives together. They took many trips in their motorhome, meeting up with their children camping and especially going on short trips to the casino. Arlene had a love for casino entertainment. Arlene and Lloyd also enjoyed many vacations too. Usually to Laughlin and Las Vegas and recently going on their first cruise to Mexico. Arlene also enjoyed being with her church family. Her and Lloyd were long time members at Oakdale Community Church. She sang in the choir and helped with numerous events during her time there. She served as treasurer for many years along with various other duties. She has made many close lifetime friends due to her involvement with the church. Her last days were spent at Sholom Home East in St. Paul where she got the most compassionate care anyone could have asked for. She started out in the rehabilitation area of Sholom. She then moved to the third floor where she was taken care of by some amazing staff. Her family could not have asked for a better place or better care for her. They would like to recognize some key nurses and staff that helped during this difficult time, Amy, Steve, Lori, Ubah, and Linda to name just a few. All of whom spent numerous hours with her and Lloyd keeping them company and sharing stories. Memorial Service 11:30 AM Saturday, March 20th, at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave. Inver Grove Hts. Visitation 10-11:30 AM prior to the service. Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Shalom Home East, St. Paul. Memorials may be made to donor’s choice.