Arlene Joan Prokop

Arlene lived a full, vibrant life, leaving a legacy of love and dedication to her family and friends.

As a young woman, Arlene worked at a local five-and-dime store and later earned a secretarial position through a typing contest. Despite being afflicted with rheumatic fever at age 16, she persevered and never allowed the disease to slow her down.

Her love story began when she met her future husband, Bob, on a double date set up by friends. Though not paired with one another on the date, their connection was immediate, and they married in 1956. While seven months pregnant with their first child in 1957, Arlene and Bob made the bold decision to move to California, where they raised their family.

Arlene's career blossomed in the early 1960s when she began work as an executive secretary at Hughes Satellite Systems in Los Angeles. She took distinct pride in her contribution to Hughes and its pivotal role in pioneering satellite communications.

Outside of work, Arlene was a woman of many interests and hobbies. An avid golfer, she won several tournaments throughout her life, and she was a competitive bowler, earning many trophies starting in high school and continuing into her Golden Years. Her love for travel and cruises led her to become a collector of mementos, bringing home treasures from around the world. Arlene also enjoyed hosting holiday gatherings and wine parties (sometimes serving her and Bob’s own label, Roblene), where she welcomed guests into the family home with hospitality and warmth.

Arlene will be lovingly remembered by her son, Steve (Julianne). She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Robert, and daughter Donna (Michael) Bigi. She was a wonderful grandmother to Rhiannon (Joe), Mike, Joe, and Sean Prokop; and to Johnny (Natalie), Kimmie, and Christina Bigi. Arlene will be forever loved and remembered by her great-grandchildren Avery and Aaron Prokop, her sister Elaine (Ron) Vehige of Richardson, TX, her sister-in-law Judi (Robert) Newman of Denver, CO, her sisters/brothers-in-law, a multitude nieces/nephews and great-nieces/nephews, and by her many dear friends.

A viewing at St. Bernadine of Siena, Calvert & Valley Circle in Woodland Hills, will be held from 11:15-11:45 am on Tuesday 3/25. The funeral service will be at 12:00 pm after the viewing.

Interment will follow at 2:00 PM on Tuesday 3/25 at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park, 5600 Lindero Canyon Rd., Westlake Village. A reception at Arlene's home will be held after the interment.

Flowers can be sent to St. Bernardines, 24410 Calvert St, Woodland Hills.