Arlene was born in East Orange, NJ, the daughter of the late Irvin W. and Mae Hedden. Arlene was raised in Long Beach Island with her family. When Arlene was in 5th grade she met William Harlfinger and that was the beginning of a beautiful love story. She married her best friend and love of her life in 1960. In 1971 she and her family moved to Ship Bottom to the home her husband built. There they resided and lived a wonderful life until his death in 2001.
Arlene was a communicant of St. Francis Parish. She took great pride in raising her family and spending her days as a dedicated stay at home mom until her children were grown. She then embarked on a career of her own working for Bank of America for over 20 years.
Arlene was a loving wife, and mother of 4 children, and a devoted grandmother. Arlene’s greatest joys centered around her children and grandchildren. If any of them were participating in a performance, sporting event or social activity, she was there. A highlight in her sporting attendance was her trips to Penn State University where she was surrounded by her family to support and cheer for her grandson on the field.
She was predeceased by her loving husband of 40 years, William Harlfinger and her beloved brothers Irvin P. and Walter Hedden, and her sister Joan Matejka. She is survived by her 4 children Linda Gesicki and husband John, West Creek NJ; Donna Gesicki and husband Mike, Manahawkin NJ; Kathleen Caldwell and husband Tim, Acworth Georgia and her son William Harlfinger, Ship Bottom NJ; Ten grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Friends and family are invited to the visitation which will be held at the Thomas L. Shinn Funeral Home, 10 Hilliard drive in Manahawkin on Tuesday March 30, 2021 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm.
A private funeral and burial will be held by the family.
To leave online condolences and fond memories of Arlene for the Harlfinger family, please visit www.shinnfuneralhome.com
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