Arlene Barchett, 97, passed away March 25, 2024, cremation has taken place. Arlene was born at Mercy Hospital to William and Julia (Cerecke) Wetzel, and grew up on Pavone Street in Benton Harbor.
She married Robert (Bob) Barchett on Feb. 26, 1949 upon his return from the Army and moved to the farm in Watervliet where Bob, his father Herman and brother, Louis farmed together raising fruits and vegetables and dairy and beef cattle. Bob and Louis built a house for the couple which Arlene continued to live in after Bob’s death (58 yrs of marriage). The farm continues in the family and will be eligible for centennial recognition in 2029.
In 2008 Arlene received a cochlear implant at U-M Hospital to correct her severe hearing loss. What she looked forward to most was being able to hear Amazing Grace once again when it was sung at church.
Arlene loved working on the farm and was the best tomato sorter ever. In addition to the farm she also worked at the Boston Store in Watervliet until it’s closing, she then took over babysitting duty for her two grandchildren who live next door. Arlene loved the outdoors and never allowed a stick or weed in her yard. She continued to mow the lawn for both homes, and the pasture, until she was 90 years old, keeping everything in pristine condition. She also maintained a beautiful garden enjoying the flowers that bloomed all summer.
Arlene never met a person she couldn’t strike up a conversation with. Next to lawn mowing and attending her grandchildren’s events talking was her favorite hobby. She enjoyed her friends and family immensely and always had a smile and complement for everyone and couldn’t wait for someone to call her for lunch at Burger King or a shopping expedition. She had a love for animals, most recently her companion was Mr. Wilson (her granddog). They would take long walks picking up trash along the way always keeping things neat and clean (cans were a bonus).
Arlene is survived by her son Alan (Marilyn) of Watervliet, daughter Janet (partner Bruce Bezant) of Australia, grandson Austin Barchett of Chicago, granddaughter Dr. Allyson Barchett-Brill (Jackson) of Hartford, great granddaughter Sawyer Brill and last but not least, great-grandson Silas Brill along with her many beloved nieces and nephews and cousins. Thanks to all for their love and support.
Preceding Arlene in death is her husband Robert Barchett, sisters Betty Mashke and Donna Payne, and brother Clarence Wetzel.
A memorial service will be held at Salem Lutheran Church on April 13 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation prior to the service from 10:00-11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service. Burial ceremony for the immediate family will take place in September when Janet and Bruce arrive from their home in Melbourne.
In remembrance donations may be made to Salem Lutheran Church, 275 Marvin St., Coloma MI 49038.
Both Arlene and Bob would like you to smile and tell a joke today, most of all be kind to someone today.