Funeral Details

Arlene Freedman, nee Levinthal, age 95.
Beloved wife of the late Kenneth Alan Freedman, DDS. Loving mother of Michael (Kathy Leonard) Freedman, Lauren Freedman, and Ruth (Daniel Wander) Freedman. Proud grandmother of Dr. Ryan (Jessica Warchall) Freedman, Jordan Freedman, Connor (Dr. Hannah Silverman) Freedman, Rachel Wander, Hannah Wander and Ren Habiby. Dear sister of Carole (the late Carl) Mishel, and sister-in-law of the late Pauline and Alan Lifton. Devoted daughter of the late Shirley and Joseph Levinthal and daughter-in-law of the late Dorothy and Julius Freedman. Cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews and adored cousin to many.

Arlene was the consummate mother, wife, and volunteer. Her kindness always shone for those she loved, and her 3 children and 6 grandchildren were near and dear to her heart. Kenneth was the love of her life, and she treasured the life they built together, where family and friends from both the north and south sides were an integral part of their circle. Her sister Carole, aunts and uncles and cousins formed a special bond that lasted a lifetime, serving as a strong foundation. Arlene loved the arts, whether it be the ballet, opera and theater or visits to the Art Institute. She never missed a chance to see something new, sharing the experiences with one of her many friends.

She was known for her wonderful cooking and hospitality, where everyone was always welcome at their house. The freezer was stocked with the best cookies and sweets available day and night, and the memories are clear for all who knew her. She loved her ice cream and was always game for a scoop. She was a wonderful hostess who always had the family for the holidays and many special occasions. The table was perfectly set, and her adept handling of the preparations were impeccable.

She was known to have a love for shopping, and her style reflected that passion. Wanting to look just right was top of mind, even in her later years, and was passed on through the generations. She kicked off her volunteer efforts at Rodfei Sholom with the sisterhood and led the Brownie troop. Ultimately, Hadassah was the driving force in her life. Her volunteer efforts ranged from the local chapter to being President of Hadassah Chicago Chapter and serving on the National board. Trips to Israel inspired her for many years and cemented her Jewish legacy.
Service Thursday 10 AM at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 8851 Skokie Blvd (at Niles Center Road), Skokie. Interment Jewish Oakridge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hadassah Chicago-North Shore 900 Skokie Blvd., Suite 295, Northbrook, Illinois 60062 tinyurl.com/ArleneFreedman. To attend the funeral livestream, please visit our website. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com