Tena L. Strenge, 95, Melvin

A funeral service for Tena L. Strenge was held Monday, June 12, 2023, at the American Lutheran Church in Melvin. Pastor Judy Johnson officiated.

Pallbearers were Jayson Strauss, Trafton Beckman, Travis McDonald, Jeremy Still, Terry DeGraaf and Jeff Duis. Interment was in Baker Township Cemetery near Melvin. Sanborn Funeral Home assisted with the arrangements.

Tena Lena (Harders) Strenge was born to Herman and Lena (Rademacher) on Oct. 22, 1927, at Ashton. 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 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. She and Verlyn enjoyed spending summer weekends at their lake cabin.

Tena died at her home on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at the age of 95. She is survived by her children: Leila (Art) Eulberg, of Dell Rapids, S.D.; 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; and Verinda (Brent) Hill, of Sioux Falls, S.D.; 23 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; one 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.