Carlene Louise Leeland, nee Beneke

PORTAGE  –  Carlene Louise Leeland, nee Beneke, age 65, was called home to heaven on Sunday, March 18, 2012.  She died peacefully at home surrounded by her sons, mother, and family.

Carlene was born on August 26, 1946, in Glencoe, MN, the daughter of Harold and Lola Beneke.  She married the love of her life, Rev. Robert G. Leeland, on July 31, 1971.  Carlene faithfully served as a teacher at St. John’s Lutheran Elementary School for over 30 years.  She enjoyed traveling and spending time with her grandchildren.  

Carlene is survived by her children, Stephan Leeland, Joel (Melissa) Leeland; her grandchildren, Calvin, Ella, Abigail, Marta, and Charlotte.  She is also survived by her mother, Lola Beneke; her brothers, Robert (Gwendolyn) Beneke, and Mark Beneke, as well as many other beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Robert Leeland, and her father, Harold Beneke. 

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 24, 2012 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Portage, with Pastor Alan Boeck officiating.  Burial will follow in Silver Lake Cemetery.  Visitation will be held on Friday, March 23, 2012, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, and on Saturday, from noon until the time of the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to St. John’s Lutheran School and Church in Portage.