I worked for and with Arlene for three years at Towncrest Inn while I was going to school. During that time,I probably spent more time with her than I did with anyone aside from my own family. I admired her work ethic and indominable spirit. She was always right there with us -- waiting on tables, clearing and washing dishes. At 3:00 AM on Saturday night, she would let me go while she stayed to finish up, but she would be back at the restaurant the very next morning if needed. When things died down, I always enjoyed sitting in the big back booth and chatting with her. Arlene was very funny in a low key way. And she knew everybody -- the golfers, the bowlers, the Altrusia Club, the Moose Lodge, all the regulars and people from way back in her Hamburg Inn days. Arlene was a very vital person, and I'm happy that she lived a long and fulfilled life.

Gary, my condolences on the passing of your mother. You were so lucky to have had her for so long. Pat O'Malley

Mark so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother.

Cheryl & Cam Davis

We are so sorry for your loss. Prayers to the family.

Papanicolaou Family

Thank God for Arlene, her family and the Towncrest Inn! In March of 1975 when I arrived in Iowa City to work up on funeral home hill, I lived at Towncrest Apartments. I can’t remember if the TC Inn was open then or if it opened shortly after. No matter, I think on my first visit I honestly believe,Arlene took one look at me and thought “this skinny kid cannot cook and I need to make sure he gets plenty to eat”! What great memories I hold in my heart of Arlene and George and Bill and Nancy and their kindness to me. It seemed that anytime I went to the restaurant, day or night, Arlene was there. What a wonderful, hard working woman she was! My love and sympathy to all of the Ellis/Marakos family members. Craig Fratzke, Storm Lake, Iowa

Sandy and Mark,

I am sorry to hear about your mom. I recall her from way, way back to the Hamburg Inn days. I clearly remember seeing her juggling plates and cups and coffee pots with the greatest of ease as she made small talk with customers and kept track of everything in perfect order. She was truly incredible and left me with mental imagery I have not forgotten. Your mom was an incredibly hard worker which reminds me of my next recollection of an evening a few years ago I witnessed at Village Inn. Mark was with her and I spotted them seated at their table. When the server delivered the order I remember thinking how nice it was after all her years to see someone else bringing your mom her dinner. She was quite a lady. My condolences to you and your entire family.

Gary, Pat and all the Ellis family. Steve and I want you to know we are thinking of you. Such a long and wonderful life.

Such a wonderful lady. Worked with her at Hamburg inn. Even in her later years she knew who I was and always spoke kindly.

My sympathy to the family.

Vicki Mickle (Honts)

my folks went to the hamburg inn towncrest inn and so did most of my family. She was a very hardworker and very friendly to all.thoughts and prayers to Daryle and Sandy and the family. Dick Sedlacek.