Arlene Leistad

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