Arla Halverson

Arla Halverson, age 88, of Decorah, IA, died on Tuesday, September 11, 2018 at her home in Decorah, IA.A private family service will be held at a later date. Arla Alvina (Johnson) Halverson was born on September 6, 1930 the daughter of Julian “Jack” and Beatrice (Hillestad) Johnson in Decorah, IA. She graduated from Decorah High School and later attended college in Cedar Falls for teaching. Arla married Neale Downing on June 1, 1952 at the Glenwood Lutheran Church outside of Decorah. To this union, three children were born: Steve, Jolene and Amy. She taught at country schools in Glenwood Township. Arla and Neale later divorced. She married Dale Halverson in 1975 in LaGrange, ILL. Arla worked at Lyons Township High School as a special education teacher until retiring in the mid 90’s. She and Dale wintered in Florida after retirement. They held season tickets to the Wisconsin Badger Football games and attended two Rose Bowl’s in Pasadena, CA. They also enjoyed golfing together. Arla loved to play Bridge, watch the Chicago Cubs play and take walks. She enjoyed going to the pool in the summer and also enjoyed watching her grandchildren play sports. She was a member of Decorah Lutheran Church and was a member of the ladies circle. Arla is survived by her children: Steve (Deb) Downing, Decorah, IA; Jolene (Kevin) Cagney, Cornelius, NC and Amy Downing, Lansing, IA. Step-children: Heather Ryan, LaGrange, ILL and Dale “Chip” (Tina) Halverson, Huntington Beach, CA. Grandchildren: Dan, Kevin and Brian Downing; Brendan, Kristin and Patrick Cagney. Sister: Phyllis (Loren) Blumhagen, Council Bluffs, IA along with nieces and nephews.Arla was preceded in death by her husband: Dale Halverson. Parents: Julian “Jack” and Beatrice (Hillestad) Johnson.