Arlis R. (Foote) Fettig

Arlis Fettig, age 75 of Alexandria, formerly Glenwood, died Saturday, December 14, 2024 at M. Health Fairview Southdale in Edina. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 20th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Glenwood with Father Joe Vandeberg officiating. A Rosary by the Christian Mothers will be Thursday at 4:30 pm. followed by visitation from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood. Visitation will also continue one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church. Interment will be in the Calvary Cemetery in Glenwood. Arrangements are with the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home.

Arlis Rae Fettig was born on May 28, 1949, in Des Moines, Iowa. She was the cherished youngest child of Virgil and Merna (Carpenter) Foote. Arlis's early years on the family farm shaped her into compassionate and hardworking individual, traits that would define her throughout her life.

Arlis's journey with her beloved husband, Jerry Fettig, began on October 5, 1968, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. Together, they built a loving home in Glenwood, MN, and later enjoyed their winters in Sun City West, AZ, starting in 2009. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Alisa and Jessica.

Educated in the local schools of Iowa, Arlis attended Pleasant Valley Country School and Southeast Polk High School before graduating from Brooten High School in 1967. She furthered her education at Alexandria Technical College and Moorhead State University, laying the foundation for her remarkable professional journey.

Arlis's career culminated in her role as the Director of Pope County Human Services, where her pragmatic approach significantly benefited the community. A pioneer for women in leadership, she was one of the first female County Department Directors in Pope County and the State of Minnesota. Arlis's influence extended beyond her department as she served on numerous advisory groups and played a pivotal role in unionizing Pope County employees. Her advocacy and leadership gave a voice to thousands across Minnesota.

Her passion for service was matched by her love for various interests and hobbies. Arlis was an active member of the Waska Riders Saddle Club, the 4-H Lakeview Club Horse Project, the Minnesota District 6 Quarter Horse Association, and the Sacred Heart Church Circle. She was a dedicated leader in the Girl Scouts and cherished all things equestrian, from shows to trail rides. Arlis's love for animals extended to all creatures, and she also enjoyed bowling. In her later years, she engaged in the Sun City West ladies Golf League, Putting League, Card Club, and Sewing Club, where she continued to cultivate friendships and share her joy for life.

Arlis is lovingly remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother—affectionately known as Nana—who consistently put the needs of her family and community before her own. Her generosity and kindness touched the lives of everyone she met, leaving a legacy of warmth and compassion.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry; daughters, Alisa (Rich) Fettig Jadeke and Jessica Fettig; grandchildren, Olivia Logan, Hayden Logan, Sophia Matchinsky, and Addasyn Matchinsky; and a community that will deeply miss her presence.

Arlis was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Merna Foote, her siblings, Betty, Joann, Merlin, Garlan, and Donna, who have now welcomed her with open arms.

 

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