Leona Mary Christensen, age 97, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at St. William’s Living Center in Parkers Prairie, under the care of Douglas County Hospice.

Leona was born on April 20, 1928, at the family home in Henning Township to Otto and Caroline (Drexler) Christensen. She attended country school and spent her early years helping her parents on the family farm. After the passing of her parents, Leona moved into Henning, where she made her home at Clement Manor for nearly three decades.

A homemaker by trade and heart, Leona also ran her own housekeeping business. She was a devoted and active member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Henning, where she participated in the Prayer Shawl Ministry, Christian Mothers, and remained a faithful lifelong member. Her faith was central to her life, especially the rosary, which was her favorite prayer.

Leona had a gifted pair of hands and a creative soul. She sewed and crocheted with care, embroidered beautifully, and made her own clothing—including the dress in which she will be laid to rest. She was also a skilled woodworker, crafting shelves, stands, and various pieces of furniture with pride and precision. In the kitchen, she was equally talented, known fondly for her cooking and baking, especially her homemade donuts that warmed many hearts and bellies. Above all, Leona was a dear friend to many, always generous with her time and kindness.

Left to honor her memory are her nephews, Jerry Little of Henning and Raymond Plonsky of Seattle, Wash., a special cousin, Karen Obermiller of Almora, and cousin, Rose “Rosie” Hendley of Cleveland, Minn., her St. Edwards Catholic Church Parish family, many cherished friends, and an abundance of great nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto & Caroline (Drexler) Christensen, her sister, Frances Little; her half-brother, Clarence Donaho; and her niece, Barbara.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Henning. Visitation will take place at the church one hour prior, beginning at 10 a.m., with the rosary prayed by the Christian Mothers. Leona will be laid to rest at St. Edward’s Cemetery following the service.

Memorials may be made to St. Edwards Catholic Church in Henning. Arrangements provided for by Belmont-Karvonen Funeral Home of Henning.