ARLENE M. BURDETTE
Arlene M. Burdette of Mount Ayr, Iowa peacefully passed from this life on April 18, 2014 surrounded by family and loved ones.
Arlene was born in her grandparents’ home to parents Albert and Maurine Brockman in Waterloo, Iowa on June 1, 1930. Arlene was swept off her feet at a tender age, marrying Jim Burdette on August 29, 1948 in Waterloo and quickly became mother of four children. She and Jim raised their family in Cedar Falls, Iowa where they worked hand-in-hand running Burdette Buick Dealership. In 1980 Jim and Arlene moved to Mount Ayr, Iowa to help tend the Burdette Family Farm. At first reluctant to take on the role of farmer’s wife, Arlene grew to love the people and land of Ringgold County and was certain that this was where she would live to the end of her life. Arlene was an avid cribbage, cards and game player who never let the grandkids win but was a good sport when it happened. She spent countless hours crafting beautiful handwork that will adorn their homes for years to come. She also enjoyed golf with friends and traveling with family throughout her life. Arlene was a kind woman with a sharp wit who cared for her family and friends with love, compassion and patience.
Arlene was preceded in death by her parents, Maurine and Albert Brockman; brother, Wendell Brockman, and son, Billy Burdette.
Arlene is survived by Jim Burdette, her husband of 65 years; children, Michael (Carol) Burdette, Linda (David Brown) Burdette and Jeffrey (Kimberly) Burdette; sister, JoAnn Winker Hendershot; six grandchildren, and one great-grandson.
The staff and volunteers at Clearview, Dr. Bruce Ricker’s office and HCI Hospice took exceptional care of Arlene during her final days. In lieu of flowers if you desire to send a donation, please send in memoriam to Wishard Chapel Community Church in Mount Ayr, Iowa.
Services were held at the Watson-Armstrong Funeral Home in Mount Ayr on Tuesday, April 22, 2014, with Pastor Bill Armstrong officiating. Musicians included Nancy Sackett and First Thing’s First.
Casket bearers were Matt Burdette, Jason Burdette, Nick Burdette, David Brown, Mickey Uss and Curt Brockman.
Burial was in the Waterloo Memorial Park Cemetery in Waterloo on Wednesday, April 23, 2014.
