Arlene Elizabeth Finkbeiner, age 96, a lifelong resident of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026.

Arlene was born on August 14, 1929, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Herman and Amanda (Kern) Fritz. On March 5, 1949, she married the love of her life, Stanley Finkbeiner, in her hometown. Together, they built a life raising their children, David and Linda, in Ann Arbor.

Arlene dedicated 26 years of service as a legal assistant at the Washtenaw County Circuit Court before her retirement. She was also a devoted, lifelong member of Bethlehem United Church of Christ, where she was deeply involved and cherished her church family.

Arlene found great joy in cooking and gardening. She was widely regarded as a master of German pretzel making.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Stanley Finkbeiner; her sister, Doris Niethammer; her parents, Herman and Amanda Fritz; her dear aunt, Hermina Mutz; and her grandson-in-law, Adam Whiteley.

Arlene is survived by her loving children, David (Elizabeth McLernon) Finkbeiner and Linda (Alan) Smith; her grandchildren, Andrew (Kristen) Finkbeiner, Kate Finkbeiner, Kevin (Mary) Finkbeiner, Dan (Teresa) Smith, and Reid (Dezarae) Smith; and nine great-grandchildren.

A private family burial service was held with Pastor Diane White officiating. A memorial service will be announced at a later date, please refer to Arlene’s obituary on niefuneralhomes.com for upcoming information.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Arlene’s name to the Bethlehem Cemetery General Fund (https://bethlehemcemeteryaa.org/donate/).