Arlene Ann Knudsen Macura, beloved mother, Nana, great-grandmother, friend and Windcrest community member, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 18, at the age of 89 in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, where she resided for the last 11 years. Born on August 23, 1936, in Weehawken, New Jersey, Arlene lived a life of perseverance with a spirited sense of fun. She married George Peter Macura on a rainy Halloween night, and together they raised three children: Glenn, Dawn (Jeff) and Karen (Laurence). Family was always at the center of Arlene's life. Arlene spent her early years on a farm in New Hampshire before moving to Boston, Massachusetts, to attend Northeastern University. After graduation, she met George, and they began their life together in Bridgeport, Connecticut, near their extended families. Over the years, George's career led their family on a series of moves-from Trumbull to Toronto to Chicago-before they ultimately settled in Whittier, California. Arlene developed a love of travel and adventure, even learning to expertly drive an over sized Winnebago motorhome in the 70's for extended family vacations. As the scope of her travels grew, Arlene eventually visited all seven continents. She never passed up the opportunity to try her luck at the casino slot machines, eagerly took any excuse to dress up in costume, living up to the nickname, the Queen of Halloween, and was never once seen turning down a good glass of Chardonnay. She is survived by her children; her grandchildren, Lauren (Bryce), Austin (Morgan), Cameron, and Alex; her great-grandchild, Declan; her siblings, Roger (Joy) and Debra (Ken); and many dear friends and "partners in crime" who will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her husband, George, in 1989. A private family sendoff will be held to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Shriners Hospital for Children in the memory of Arlene Macura and asks that you honor Arlene's memory by toasting her with your next drink. Arlene's warmth, gentle humor, and steadfast love left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be fondly remembered for her signature goodbye: "Love and Hugs"