Arlene Ruth Carpenter

Arlene Ruth Carpenter, 86, of Lake Barrington, died peacefully on Saturday, July 18, 2026 while surrounded by family. 

She was born in Appleton, Minnesota to parents Robert and Alvina (née Schrock) Haben. While in college, she met Earl Carpenter on a blind date, and the two would go on to enjoy 62 years of marriage together. 

Arlene began her career as a nurse before dedicating herself to raising her three boys at home. As they grew older, her enthusiasm and eye for fashion led her to a successful career selling clothing. A selfless and doting mother, Arlene always kept her children as her top priority. Arlene had many talents and constantly shared her gifts with those around her. She was a skilled seamstress and served as the trusted family barber, cutting hair for everyone both inside and outside the family. She was known for many staple dishes including her legendary "Grandmother Rolls"—a cherished recipe that she inherited from her mother-in-law, Dorothy Carpenter. 

Arlene was preceded in death by her grandson, Joshua Carpenter, and her siblings, Vernon, Marion, and Marlis. 

She is survived by her beloved husband, Earl Carpenter; her sons, Michael (Andreea) Carpenter, David (Darlene) Carpenter, and Scott (Leah) Carpenter; her grandchildren, Daniel, Ellie, Clayton, and Isaac; and her siblings, Gloria Rumsey and Arlys Dayton. 

Visitation will be Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 2 p.m. to the time of the funeral service at 4 p.m. at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 149 West Main Street, Barrington, IL 60010. 

In lieu of flowers, to honor the family's wishes, you can make a memorial gift directly to the American Diabetes Association Arlene Ruth Carpenter gift page.