Arla Mae Damon's Obituary
Arla Mae Damon, age 92, passed away on Friday, April 29th, 2022 at The Courtyard of Oshkosh with her two daughters at her side.
She was born on April 14, 1930 to Clara and Louis Strain in Dubuque Iowa. The family later moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin where she attended school and eventually met her future husband, James Damon. On May 5, 1951 she married Jim in Milwaukee. He preceded her in death on January 23 1991.
Arla's contagious smile and friendly personality made her perfect for working in retail for many years at Diane's Hallmark. In addition, Arla worked in food service at Washington Elementary and later at North High School.
Throughout her life, Arla enjoyed volunteering. When she and Jim were parishioners of St. Mary's Catholic Church, they were active in many parish activities. She had been a member of the Women's Postal Auxiliary. Arla also volunteered in the Mercy Medical gift shop starting at the Hazel Street location for many years and continuing until 2018 at the Oakwood Road site. In addition to her volunteering, she also was a past member of the 20th Century Club.
Surviving are her daughters: Patricia (William) Runke and Laura Damon both of Oshkosh, 2 grandsons: Will (Kris) Runke and Andrew (Suzanne) Runke and two great-grand daughters: Riley Runke and Olivia Runke. She is also survived by her brother, Paul (Geraldine Geischer), and sister, Marie as well as many nieces and nephews.
Preceding her in death were her parents, brother: Louis, sisters: Lois and Kathleen, nephews: Jim, Patrick and Rob, and neice: Kathy.
Arla was a member of St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Oshkosh.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 6, 2022 at St. Jude Catholic Church (St. Vincent site at 1225 Oregon St, Oshkosh, WI ). Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM followed by Mass at 11:00 AM. Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery.
The family would like to thank the staff of The Courtyard and Heartland Hospice for their excellent and compassionate care. They would also like to thank pastoral associate, Marianne and St. Jude parishioner, Sue, for their visits and prayers for Arla.
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