Arlene Benzenhoefer

Arlene Benzenhoefer, age 91 of Pompton Plains and formerly of Wayne, NJ, died peacefully on Saturday, July 5, 2025.

Arlene grew up in Weehawken, New Jersey and graduated from Weehawken High School, Class of 1951. During her youth, Arlene cherished summers spent with her aunt Olga at Erskine Lakes, New Jersey, where she developed a lifelong love for nature and the simple joys of lake life.

It was at Weehawken High School that Arlene met Emil Benzenhoefer. They dated during their teenage years and were married in 1953, followed by a memorable honeymoon at Niagara Falls, New York. They first settled in Weehawken before buying a home in Wayne during the mid-1950s. Arlene welcomed motherhood and devoted herself to raising their two children; Lynda and Paul. She became an active, beloved member of the community and was deeply involved in local civics, serving as PTO President at James Fallon Elementary School for many years, volunteering at the Foundation for the Handicapped (Found Abilities) and at the local voting polls, as well as serving as a Cub Scout and Brownie and Girl Scout leader. She also served as President of the Preakness-Wayne Woman’s Club for many years, helping to foster service and connection among local women. She loved her community and enjoyed being an integral part of it and she believed in community service. 

Arlene didn’t learn to drive until she was in her 40’s, and this skill expanded her reach quite a bit. She embraced her newfound independence and continued to be a devoted homemaker and community supporter. She was an avid reader, particularly fond of romance novels. She and Emil enjoyed dining out together often, treasuring their time and conversations over shared meals. Berta’s Chateau was among their favorite places to dine.

Together, she and Emil traveled extensively, exploring England, Ireland, Scotland, Paris, and The Bahamas, and they made many cherished memories during their time-share visits to Aruba. Sadly, Emil passed away in 2014 and Arlene subsequently made some lifestyle changes for herself. For the last eleven years, she’s been a resident of Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains. She enjoyed the many social clubs and activities available to her there, and she lovingly embraced her community there as well. Arlene will be remembered for her dedication to her family and community, her love of travel and learning, and her commitment to living life fully. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and love that will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.

Arlene is survived by her daughter Lynda Benzenhoefer and her partner Bernadette Fiore of Lyndhurst, and Paul Benzenhoefer and his wife Denise of Wayne, a grandson; Matthew Benzenhoefer and his wife Lisa of Riverdale, her cousin; Joyce and Vinny Boland of Ringwood, Lisa DeHope Wagner an almost second daughter to Arlene and Emil, Nicie Collins formerly of Wayne a cherished forever sister-friend,  and dear friend Maria Boscarino.

For anyone interested in making a donation in honor of Arlene, please make a check to:

Cedar Crest Scholarship Fund

1 Cedar Crest Village Drive

Pompton Plains, NJ 07444

Or contact Christine Pretino (Cedar Crest Philanthropy Coordinator) at 973-831-3517.