Arlene Burns

Arlene Burns, 91, of Rochester, MN passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at Madonna Towers Skilled Nursing Care, surrounded by her loved ones.
Arlene was born on March 7, 1934 in Winona County, to Leo and Erma (Kramer) Kalmes. She grew up in Altura, MN and graduated from Lewiston High School.
She married the love of her life, Thomas Burns, on August 26, 1953. Together, they built a life, raised a family, and shared 60 plus years of marriage before Tom passed away in 2019. Arlene did daycare at her home, worked at Henry’s Drive In, and Mayo Clinic. She retired May 27, 1994, from Mayo Clinic. Those who knew Arlene will remember her for her outgoing personality, her love of people, and her love of having fun. She will be missed.
Arlene is survived by her son, Steven (Robin) Burns and her daughter, Deb (Denny) Hatzenbihler; four grandchildren, Kim (Josh) Pankratz, Sara (Craig) Yamamoto, Heather (Corey) Busch, Andrew (Stephanie) Hatzenbihler and ten great-grandchildren, Elijah, Jesse, Nikka, Abigail, Mayumi, Charlie, Samantha, Miles, Tommy and Mara. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents and her two brothers.
A Memorial service was held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home, 1105 12th St. SE, Rochester with Father Bob Horihan officiating. Visitation was held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to Madonna Towers. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.mackenfuneralhome.com