Maureen Ann (Bertram) Arens

Maureen Ann Arens (Bertram) died in the arms of her loving husband of 59 years on November 9, 2022.  Maureen was married to the love of her life, Al Arens, on September 7, 1963. Together they raised 4 children – John (Stephanie Troub), Patty (Dan Schmitt), Carolyn (John McQuillan) and Bill (Anne Power).  She was a caring, fun grandmother who created a second home for her 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren and loved to spoil them with ice cream and “Meema money.” 

Growing up on a farm north of Fowler as one of 10 children, Maureen helped care for many of her younger siblings.  She was a caretaker her entire life.  While raising her children, Maureen earned her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing and worked for the St. Lawrence mental health unit for 20 years.  At work, Maureen was known for her intelligence, compassion, and occasional Freudian slip-of-the-tongue.

Maureen was incredibly generous with her family, or even strangers, and once gave a large tip to a waitress so she could buy new shoes. She was quick witted, funny, well-read and prioritized education for herself and her children. Maureen loved a stimulating conversation, creating beautiful landscapes around her home, playing guitar, traveling with Al, adding to her extensive movie collection, reading a great book, and was an accomplished amateur photographer. She was fiercely proud of her Irish heritage and two of her favorite trips were those she took to Ireland, one with her beloved sisters, and another with her husband.

Her children will be forever grateful to their father who selflessly cared for Maureen, especially in the last few years of her life.  It was a testament to their continued love and devotion and an inspiration to all who knew them. 

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Eric Weber at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, November 12, 2022 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Westphalia. Rite of Committal will follow at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the the St. Mary's Funeral Chapel, 210 N. Westphalia Street, Westphalia. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to Sparrow Behavioral Health Center - St. Lawrence Campus, 1210 W. Saginaw Street, Lansing, MI 48915. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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