Arlene Catherine (Beethem) McCarthy

Arlene Catherine McCarthy, nee Beethem, born on December 5, 1937 to Lloyd and Lydia Beethem in Cheboygan, MI, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

Arlene married Joseph McCarthy in 1957 in Cheboygan, Michigan. Together, they moved to Illinois where they built a loving family and raised seven children: Linda, who passed away at the age of five, Joseph, Loren, Karen, Edward, Laura, and Matthew. Arlene was known for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for her family.

Arlene had a passion for gardening, reading, cooking, and baking, and was best known for her incredible cheesecakes, which were loved by all who had the pleasure of tasting them. Her garden was always in full bloom, and her home was filled with the comforting aromas of her delicious meals and baked goods. Arlene was deeply involved in her community, particularly through her work with the Glenside Football Concession stand. For many years, she ran the stand, sharing her delicious baked goods with the community. Additionally, Arlene dedicated her time to sewing cheerleading uniforms, ensuring that each one was made with care and love. Her contributions brought joy and unity to the community, and her efforts were greatly appreciated by all.  

After retirement, Arlene returned to Cheboygan, Michigan, to live on a small farm near her brothers and sisters, where she enjoyed raising various farm animals including chickens, goats, and dogs. Arlene returned to Illinois and lived her last five years with her daughter, Laura, and her husband, Paul. She enjoyed time with family and grandkids. She is survived by her children, Loren McCarthy, Karen Schecht (Russell), Edward McCarthy (Theresa Pivar), Laura Pytell (Paul), Matthew McCarthy (Linda), daughter-in-law, Karen McCarthy, brother, Lowell (Jean) Beethem, sister-in-laws Margaret Beethem, Lyndal Beethem, brother-in-law, Robert Anderson, 11 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces.

Arlene was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph A. McCarthy, her son, Joseph J. McCarthy, her daughter, Linda McCarthy, her parents, her siblings, Bill Beethem, Rozetta Barette, Bernard Beethem, Donna Anderson, and her brother-in-law, Harold Barette. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A private memorial service will be held at a future date to celebrate Arlene's life.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Arlene Catherine (Beethem) McCarthy, please visit our floral store.