Arlene Shatzel

With heavy hearts, we announce that Arlene Shatzel, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 19, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by her loving family.

Arlene was born to Joseph and Caroline Durl on October 30, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey. Her childhood home was shared with her sister, parents, and extended family. In her early twenties, Arlene met her soulmate: Leo Shatzel. Married on June 16, 1962, they built a life that would span more than six decades and numerous states countrywide. Wherever the family found themselves, Arlene had a way of turning that place into a home.

 Arlene's greatest joy and duty was her family. A homemaker and devoted mother, she raised and nurtured five wonderful children. While Leo’s career took him to all corners of the country, Arlene ensured that the family was supportively anchored from the homefront. As the matriarch, she was sweet, loving, and resilient with unwavering dedication.

She happily welcomed twelve grandchildren to the world. As their Nanny, she cared for them with warmth, kindness, and a little bit of silliness, making each of them feel deeply treasured and truly at home. Arlene always reveled in sharing laughs with these loved ones, even if it meant poking fun at herself with them. This foundation of love and laughter cemented many happy memories for the entire Shatzel family.

Arlene was a faithful Roman Catholic and a longtime member of St. Lawrence Roman Catholic Church, where she was a familiar and admired presence in the community. She encouraged her extended family to come into faith as well, and no matter who she brought with her, she was always the last to leave as she made her rounds with her many friends. Arlene made friends feel like family. Arlene is survived by her husband, **Leo Shatzel**; her sister, **Rose Mary Cancro**; her daughter, **Debbie Brunetti**; her son, **Richard Shatzel**; her daughter, **Diane Bechtel**; her daughter, **Crissy Shatzel**; her son, **Michael Shatzel**; and her twelve grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her father, **Joseph Durl**; and her mother, **Caroline Durl**.

Arlene's greatest legacy is the love she gave to her family. She was the heart of their home, and the warmth and grace she shared will continue to live on through the generations she cherished so dearly.

May she rest peacefully in the loving arms of God.