Arlene I. Hinrichs, age 96 of Buffalo, formerly of Fairmont, passed away November 16, 2018. She was born on July 14, 1922 in Mallard, Iowa to Earl and Hilda (Larson) Stafford. She graduated from Mallard High School in 1939 and was offered a basketball scholarship to continue her education at AIB (American Institute of Business), where she received her associate’s degree. She had a career as an executive secretary at 3M, Fairmont School District, and Immanuel Lutheran Church.

She was joined in holy marriage to Carl Hinrichs in Mallard, Iowa. The two were married before Carl left to serve in the military during World War II. When he returned, they resided in Fairmont, MN and together they raised five children.

Arlene was a loving and devoted wife and mother. She cherished her family and would always make sure their needs were taken care of and would always put them first. Arlene also was active in her church, often volunteering and helping with events at Immanuel Lutheran.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Carl; parents, Earl and Hilda; brothers, Kenneth (Alice) Stafford and Wesley Stafford; sister, Ruth (Dale) Bemrich; and brother-in-law, Wilfred Hinrichs.

Arlene will be missed by her family and friends that survived her: children, Carl (Vicki) Hinrichs, Colleen (Daniel) Holtorf, Cheryl (Wayne) Huff, Stephen (Patti) Hinrichs, and Michael (Karen) Hinrichs; 10 grandchildren and 2 step-grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and 3 step-great-grandchildren; sisters, Margaret Hinrichs and Dorothy (Kenneth) Lyon; brother-in-law, Paul (Fran) Hinrichs; and many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A funeral service is planned for Sunday, November 25, 2018 at Park Terrace in Buffalo, MN at 4:00 PM with visitation at 3:30 PM. Interment is planned for Monday, November 26, 2018 at Rush Lake Cemetery in Mallard, Iowa at 11:30 AM.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com