Leona G. Pedersen

Leona Pedersen, age 83, of Storm Lake, Iowa fought a courageous nine year battle against cancer, with the support of her husband, that ended on February 2, 2012 at the Methodist Manor Retirement Community in Storm Lake. Leona Grace Martson was born on September 18, 1928, in Shelby county, near Tennant, Iowa in a small farm house that was formerly a one-room school house. Her father, Harrison Benjamin Martson, was a farmer and her mother, Grace Louisa (Brown) Martson, was a homemaker. Leona grew up on a farm, doing outside chores and farm work, working a lot with horses. She rode Roman-style in her younger years. She was a true farm girl. She attended school and graduated from Tennant High School and was a proud member of the girls basketball team. On November 30, 1948, Leona was united in marriage to Glen Edward "Pete" Pedersen, who she met while he was working in the grocery store in Shelby, Iowa. After moving to Atlantic, Pete was drafted into the Korean War. Leona stayed for a time with him in California and then returned to Iowa, staying with family. After the Army, they moved to Harlan, Iowa and then on to Cherokee, Iowa, when job opportunities for Pete came along. On May 17, 1957, they were blessed with a son, Steven Glen. In 1958, the family moved to Storm Lake, where a new Swanson Store was built. Storm Lake would be the town, Leona, lived out the rest of her life. Leona enjoyed being with her husband of 63 years, riding her horse with her granddaughter, and helping her grandson with his homework. Pete and Leona enjoyed going to Polka dances around the area with friends. Additionally, Leona loved being outdoors with her horses, plants and flowers. She loved animals, especially cats, horses and her pet ducks. She was always taking in some crippled or wounded animal. Leona was a wonderful mender, who could mend anything and will always be remembered as a great cook. Above all else, Leona will always be remembered for the glue, which held the family together. She was the best grandma ever, who maintained a calm presence and knew just what to do. Her guidance and wisdom will always be treasured by her family. Those left to cherish Leonaâ€™s memory are her husband, Glen â€œPeteâ€; her son, Steven "Pete" Pedersen and his wife, Julie, of Storm Lake; two grandchildren: Stevie and Harrison; extended family and many friends. Leona was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Francis Louisa; and her brother, Warren Harrison.

Leona G. Pedersen

September 18, 1928 - February 2, 2012