PALMQUIST, ARLENE E. (nee Thornwald); passed away March 2, 2024; age 96; formerly of Dearborn, MI and Chicago, IL

In loving memory of our Mother, Arlene Eleanore (Thornwald) Palmquist, Age 96.

Arlene was born February 16, 1928, in Chicago, IL at the Swedish Covenant Hospital to David (1890-1981) and Elna (1890-1983) Thornwald who had both emigrated from Sweden. Brothers: Roy (1914-40) and Everette (1921-1991) welcomed their little sister. Arlene was raised in Chicago, attending the Ravenswood Evangelical Covenant Church.

Family, Swedish traditions, humor, and puns, cooking and hospitality, as well as her Christian faith were sources of strength for Arlene. Arlene had fond memories of early childhood when she would sit on her mother's lap. Her mother would rock and sing such songs as "Sitting at the feet of Jesus" and "When the Roll is Called Up Yonder." Arlene attributes her own active participation at Ravenswood Evangelical Covenant Church, founded by Swedish immigrants, to the training she received in her home as a child. Arlene often spoke of being a good depression girl.

Arlene was preceded in death by her loving husband Glenn Palmquist of 57 years till his passing in 2010 and son David Palmquist in 2013. Glenn worked for Chrysler Corporation as International Market Development Executive. While raising the children Glenn would often have to travel internationally to: Europe, China and even Africa. Arlene stayed behind to monitor the household, children, and their school schedules.

Their home was blessed with 4 children: Karen, married to Russell Hjelmberg, Joyce Palmquist, married to David Sass, David Palmquist (passed 2013), and Diane, married to Marco Antonio Sanabria.

Beloved Mormor (Swedish Grandmother) to Gayle & Erik Hjelmberg, Jenna & Dawson Sass, Diego, Elena & Dante Sanabria

Many of their friends also referred to her as Mormor (Mother's Mother Swedish Grandma).

Arlene and Glenn loved to travel and have fun, including visiting relatives in Sweden many times. They also traveled to Africa, Caribbeans, China, Europe, Israel, Japan, and Mexico.

Arlene and Glenn had a cottage for 40 years in Onekama, MI. They socialized with many friends in the condo association and next door at Portage Lake Covenant Bible Camp.

Arlene was the devoted wife, mother, Mormor and friend to those who were lucky to know her. She had a big heart and cared for everyone in her life and was just the kindest person who you could have met.

Arlene's life centered around her home, her family, her church and Swedish Club. Arlene loved everyone and was loved and impacted by all who met her. We will miss her talkativeness, love, and generosity.

We also want to thank the people at the Genesis group home in Troy that were so kind and took care of her the last 2 years. Although while at the group home in Troy, she longed for her earlier life and said she had a good 93 years. Others that are searching for a place for their loved one we recommend contacting "A Place for Mom."

In accordance with Arlene's wishes, she chose cremation.

Celebrating a life lived well to the fullest extent. Celebration of her Life will take place on May 11th, 2024 at 11:00am, at Dearborn Covenant Church, 18575 W. Outer Drive at Golfview, Dearborn, MI 48128.

Memorial donations can be given to either the Dearborn Covenant Church or to the Swedish Club 22398 Ruth St, Farmington Hills, MI 48336 (248) 478-2563 Arlene and Glenn thought of both as their 2nd homes.

Arrangements by Howe-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Dearborn Location, 22546 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, Mi. 48124, 313-561-1500. www.howepeterson.com

Following are some of Arlene's favorite verses:

Psalms 32:8 - I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go. I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

Proverbs 16:3 - Commit your way to the Lord and your plans will be established.

Proverbs 16:9 - A man's mind plans his way but the Lord directs his steps.

Proverbs 19:21 - Many are the plans in the mind of man, but it is the direction of the Lord that will be established.

Safely Home

I am home in heaven, dear ones;

Oh, so happy and so bright!

There is perfect joy and beauty

In this everlasting light.

All the pain and grief is over,

Every restless tossing passed;

I am now at peace forever,

Safely home in heaven at last!

There is work still waiting for you.

So you must not idly stand;

Do it now, while  life remaineth-

You shall rest in God's own land.

When the work is all completed,

He will gently call you Home;

Oh, the rapture of that meeting,

Oh, the joy to see you come!