Arlys L. Kempf

My memory of Arlys is from Glendale Elementary School. My two daughters were students there and I was on support staff. Arlys always had amazing book fairs where she had books at very low costs to the students to purchase. The day after a book fair, my oldest daughter came to the breakfast table with a book from the event. When I asked her where it came from because I knew we had not purchased it, her reply was, "Mrs Kempf gave it to me." After a little questioning, we got ready for the day at school (with the book in hand) and arranged a meeting with Mrs Kempt during a free time. The daughter had to hand the book back to Mrs. Kempf, apologize, and give her reason for taking the book. And, as often happens, it became my fault. I was in another part of the building during the book fair, helping with another activity, she really wanted the book and knew someone else might purchase it. Mrs. Kempf told her that in the future, my daughter should take the book to her and ask her to hold it until I could be found in order to give this child the money to pay for the book and all would be OK. There was a little talk by Mrs Kempf about the difference between stealing and purchasing. I don't remember the outcome for that book, but I think a lesson was learned that day. Thank you Arlys. Blessings to your family.

Some of my favorite memories of Glendale involve the library and Mrs. Kempf. Miss Wohlner taking our class to story time where Mrs. Kempf’s voice captured and held our attention with every turn of the page. She patiently taught us how to use the card catalog and rewarded good behavior with allowing us to listen to records on the record player with headphones or reading in the little house/fort filled with pillows. She began my lifelong love of reading. What a wonderful person.

Bob and I moved in to a condo in 2019 right next door to Arly and Lee. They were both wonderful neighbors, kind and always interested in our lives. They spent summers and early fall on their screen porch where we alway could hear their lively chatter and laughter. Even in their 90's it was obvious they were still very devoted to each other. I visited them a few times and they were gracious and welcoming. Arly was so bright and cheerful even after a fall put her in rehab for several weeks. We were so happy to see her return home. We were very saddened to learn of her recent illness and her passing 7 days ago. We will miss seeing Arly next door. May her memory be for an eternal blessing.

Dear Lee, Jodi, Jill and family,Our sincere condolences on the loss of your dear Arly. We will miss seeing her nearby.With our love,Judi & Bob Rubin

I had the privilege of knowing and learning from Arly Kempf, my Supervising Teacher, when I returned to UW for a Library Science degree. Arly was a wonderful librarian, educator, and role model… admired and respected by staff and students! Her example guided me throughout my career as a school librarian. My sympathy to the family and friends of Arly Kempf. Mary Jo Porter Olson