Lenora Strand

Lenora Ilene was born on January 14, 1923 in Van Hook, North Dakota to parents Leander and Isabella (Simonson) Johnson. In 1930, the family moved to Isabella's family farm in Camp Lake Township of rural Benson, MN where she attended District 23 and Benson School. The farm was her home until June 17, 1942 when she married Gynther Strand. To this union four children were born: Ivan, Ilene. Glen and Ardis. Lenora and Gynther were active members of St. Pauli Church. While working with Gynther on the farm she also worked at Fingerhut and Delmonicos Restaurant in Benson as their baker. In 1982, Lenora and Gynther sold their farm and moved to Benson where they were active members at Trinity Lutheran Church. She also worked at Meadow Lane Nursing Home. In August of 1995, the couple moved to the Senator Condominium in Alexandria. They joined First Lutheran Church where Lenora became an active member with the Leisure League and Dorcas Circle. She also belonged to the Knute Nelson Auxiliary. Lenora loved to sew, quilt and entertain friends and family. She also loved playing cards and helping others. Lenora passed away on Wednesday, July 30, 2008 at her home in Alexandria after a long struggle with cancer. Lenora is survived by daughters: Ardis (Jim) Danielson of Alexandria, Ilene (Adam) Doty of Arden Hills, MN and Sarasota, FL; one son, Glen (Nadine) Strand of rural Murdock, MN; grandchildren, Julie (Michael) Brott of Lakeville, MN; Paul (Kris) Danielson of Chippewa Falls, WI; Anthony (Lisa) Strand of Savage, MN; Trevor (Tanya) Strand of Vernon, WI, Jayson (Tina Nathe) Strand of Alexandria, Aaron (Eileen) Doty of College Park, MD and Sara (Chad) Owen of Minneapolis, MN; and fourteen great grandchildren. She also is survived by sister, Ione (Harlan) Lund, brothers, Verner Johnson, Lenard (Ursala) Johnson, Irvin (Ellen) Johnson, and Ernest (Barb) Johnson; and many nieces and nephews. Lenora was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Gynther; son Ivan; and brothers, Irvin, Floyd, and Arvid Johnson. Lenora loved her family and lived her faith. A service to celebrate the life of Lenora Strand will be held on Friday, August 1, 2008 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Rev. Greg Billberg officiated. Julie Brott and Randy Morken provided music. Inurnment followed Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials be given to Douglas County Hospice, First Lutheran Church or the American Cancer Society.