Arlene M. Wells

July 1, 1938 ~ January 8, 2026

Age 87

Arlene Wells peacefully completed her earthly journey on January 8, 2026, following a lengthy battle with metastatic cancer.

Born July 1, 1938 in Elk Point, South Dakota, she was the fifth of six children of Ray and Lucille Lyle who farmed in the area. Following her elementary and secondary education in Elk Point, she attended South Dakota State College in Brookings, South Dakota where she completed studies to become a Registered Pharmacist that eventually led to a very successful career.

Arlene married Richard on August 10, 1960 at the beginning of his service in the Air Force. They moved frequently and concluded with an extended assignment at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska.

Preceded in death by her parents, four siblings and infant grandson Matthew Paul Cook.

Arlene is survived by her husband of 65 years and three children: Michael and Mendy, Anita and Paul, and Bradley and Jennifer who are the parents of Nicholas Wells, Alexander and Allison Wells, Megan and Blake Schroeder, Daniel Cook, and Jack, Lauren and Henry Wells, her brother Phillip and Chris Lyle, her sister-in-law Jeanne and her husband Frank Polite, plus numerous nieces and nephews.

She was a longtime Henry Doorly Zoo volunteer, reflecting her love of animals, especially horses, dogs, cats, and deer.

Her medical career also provided a powerful vehicle for significant service to those in need. Many times, strangers would stop her to say thank you for her assistance or advice received years previously.

Visitation: Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., with Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m., Bellevue Memorial Chapel.

Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday, January 14, 10:30 a.m., St. Matthew the Evangelist Catholic Church, 12330 South 36th Street, Bellevue, Ne 68123.

Interment: Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 12:30 p.m., Omaha National Cemetery,

To view a live broadcast of the services, click the live cast option at the top of the home page.

Memorials: St. Mary’s of Bellevue Catholic Church / https://stmarysbellevue.com

Bellevue Fire and Rescue / https://www.bellevue.net/departments/fire-department/overview