Irene Benaszeski

Irene “Arlene” H. Benaszeski, 76, Rothschild, passed away Monday, Dec. 19, 2016, at Davita-Wausau Dialysis Center, after an 18 month long battle from a rare autoimmune disease, “A.N.C.A. Vasculitis”, formerly known as Wegener’s.

She was born Jan. 6, 1940, in Stevens Point, the daughter of the late Florian and Lillian (Landowski) Wanta. She married David Benaszeski on Feb. 7, 1959, at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church, Bevent. He survives.

Arlene was a devoted mother who loved cats, gardening, polka music and canning. She was also involved in politics and served as a county board member for Marathon County.

Survivors besides her husband, David, include two sons, James Benaszeski, Rothschild, and John (Tracy) Benaszeski, Tomahawk; two daughters, Lori Benaszeski, Minocqua, and Gayle (Terry) Rutlin, Rhinelander; six grandchildren, Lindsay, Kylee, Shelby, Cadee, Brent Benaszeski and Emma Rutlin; a brother, Myron Wanta; and a sister, Delores Schneider.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 23, 2016, at St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Rothschild. The Rev. Allan Slowiak will officiate. Burial will be in Mosinee Cemetery, Mosinee. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. Friday until time of services all at the church. Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.bestefh.com