Tena Lena (Harders) Strenge, was born to Herman and Lena (Rademacher) on October 22, 1927, at Ashton, IA. She and her seven siblings grew up in the Ashton and Melvin area.
Tena was united in marriage to Verlyn Strenge on Feb. 20, 1946. To this union eight children were born. She lived her entire married life on the farm west of Melvin. Tena died at her home on June 7, 2023 at the age of 95.
Tena was a member of the American Lutheran Church. She enjoyed tending her large garden and spending time with her grandchildren. She was always baking and cooking, ready to serve her family or anyone who visited. Being a farm wife and mother of one son and seven daughters fulfilled her life. Verlyn and Tena enjoyed spending summer weekends at their Lake cabin.
She is survived by her children, Leila (Art) Eulberg of Dell Rapids, SD, Marie (Dan) McDonald of Sanborn, Evonne (George) Schneider of Sheldon, Glenda Kreykes (fiancé Dave Kruger) of Sheldon, Twyla (Dennis) Holtz of Melvin, Kevin of Melvin, Verinda (Brent) Hill of Sioux Falls, SD; 23 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson and other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Verlyn, her daughter, Darla, grandson Jamie Strauss, granddaughter Rachel Duis, son-in-law George Schneider, her parents, and seven siblings.
A funeral service was held June 12 at the American Lutheran Church, Melvin, Iowa with Pastor Judy Johnson officiating.
Pallbearers were Jayson Strauss, Trafton Beckman, Travis McDonald, Jeremy Still, Terry DeGraaf and Jeff Duis.
Readings by Grandchildren included Memories of Grandma and Grandma’s Prayer.
Songs of Praise were “What A Friend We Have In Jesus,” “Just As I Am,” “I Love To Tell The Story” and “Amazing Grace.” The organist was Fay Schall.
Interment was at Baker Township Cemetery near Melvin.
Sanborn Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.