"Arlene will be missed by many. I am so glad we had a chance to visit at Thanksgiving. She was a delightful woman. Debra Kleckner"
In loving memory of
Arlene Leistad
October 27, 2020 - February 19, 2012
Arlene Frances, daughter of Chris and Emma (Nelson) Berger, was born June 6, 1917 in Corley, Iowa. She grew up with her parents and sister enjoying singing and family gatherings, especially Christmas and birthdays. She attended school in Shelby, Council Bluffs and the last two years in Elk Horn after the family moved to the area. During her school years, Arlene enjoyed music and speech activities. It was also during this time that she met Norman Leistad "and that was it" in her words. Arlene was united in marriage with Norman Leistad on May 24, 1935. They lived and raised their family of three children on the Leistad home farm one mile west of Elk Horn. In 1977 they built a home in Elk Horn and retired from farming. Arlene was very active in Elk Horn community activities. She did volunteer work at Salem Lutheran Homes, Danish Immigrant Museum and Elk Horn Lutheran Church. She became the church organist in 1957. Church was always an important part of her life. Norman died in 1986 and Arlene continued to live in their home. She was primarily a homemaker and never lost her joy of family gatherings filled with music. In what spare time she had, she taught organ lessons. She was able to celebrate her 90th birthday with many relatives and friends attending the festivities. Arlene moved to Salem Lutheran Home in 2006, and became a permanent resident there in 2007. She continued to play the organ on a regular basis at the Salem Home. After suffering declining heath for about a year, she died at Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn on Sunday, February 19, 2012 at the age of 94 years, 8 months and 3 days. Preceding her in death are her parents, husband and grandson Randall England. Arlene is survived by her three children: Ronald (Judith) Leistad of Pearland, TX; Rosalie (Dale) McKinney of McMinnville, OR and Norene (Steven) Hayes of West Des Moines, IA; six grandchildren: Beth (Sydney) Winquist; Joni (Jerome) Leistad; Reed (Janelle) Leistad; Rita Wolff; Michael (Robbyn) England and Molly Hayes; 17 great grandchildren; 12 great great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Officiating Reverend Keith Menter, Elk Horn Lutheran Church Reverend Paul Reynolds, Salem Home Chaplain Music "Lord of All Hopefulness" "I Am the Bread of Life" Congregation "The Lord's Prayer" Rev. Menter Janell Hansen, Accompanist Memories Beth Winquist Molly Hayes Casket Bearers Sydney Winquist Jerome Irlmeier Joseph Irlmeier Bradley Irlmeier Michael England Reed Leistad David England Jack Krogstad Tim Fredericksen
Tributes
"You all have my deepest sympathy."
"As Pete and Gere Krogstad's Granddaughter, I spent many weekends in Elkhorn growing up and always enjoyed anytime we stopped by to see Arlene. I remember a happy, giving, woman with a lot of energy and enthusiasm. She will be missed greatly by my family and the Elkhorn community."
"The video was beautiful. It brought back so many wonderful memories and made me think of my own mother. Thank you. Arlene has been a big part part of our extended family. I hope you can have peace as you go through this time. Love you all. Irene"
"We want you to know we are holding you all in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time. Arlene will always hold a special place in our hearts. She was one special lady."
"I just watched the video and it really reminded me of what a special person Arlene was and she made you feel special. She will missed."
"You were a wonderful Grandmother and truly the last of your kind. I was extremely blessed to have a Grandmother like you. We Love You! Reed, Janelle, Lindsey, and Ashley"
"I will miss seeing Aunt Arlene's smiling face when I walk through Salem's halls, and the hugs and conversations we had. Special lady."
"Arlene was a second mom to us Krogstad kids. She always made us feel welcome and at home in her presence. I feel so blessed to have had such a wonderful friend in my life. I'll forever cherish all the many great memories, some quite humorous. Many are grieving with you Ron, Rosalie, Norene and your families. We've all lost a very special woman. My sympathy, thoughts and prayers. Love, Eileen (Krogstad) Ryun"
"Steven, Norene and Molly, So sorry to hear about Arlene's passing-she was a wonderful lady and spread much joy through her musical talent! She is now at rest in God's loving care."
"Heard from brother Roger via Wes Ryan about Arlene's passing. Just called Mom for our usual Monday call and she sends her condolences to the Leistad family. Mom and Arlene were friends for many years to say the least. Sincerely, Richard Krogstad"