Leona M. (Hiemstra) Studer

Leona M. Studer, 89, of Clarion passed away on Monday, November 6, 2017 at the Rehabilitation Center of Belmond.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at 10:30 AM at St. John’s Catholic Church, 608 2nd Avenue North East in Clarion, with Monsignor John Hemann and Deacon Dr. Michael Whitters officiating. Burial will take place at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Clarion.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 10, 2017 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, with a Rosary and Scriptural Wake Service beginning at 7:00 PM, at Ewing Funeral Home, 1801 Central Avenue East in Clarion. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday.

Leona Mae, the daughter of Hubert and Inez (Crawford) Hiemstra, was born July 17, 1928 in rural Franklin County near Meservey.  She attended country schools and moved with her family to Wright County in 1941.  She attended Clarion High School through the 10^th grade, when she began helping on the farm.

Leona was united in marriage to Frank E. Studer on July 21, 1945 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Clarion.  Leona then moved across the road where the couple farmed for more than 50 years.  Leona also worked at E.D.S for 4 years and 3 years for Service Master.  She and Frank moved to Clarion in August of 1996, and Frank passed away on January 12, 1997.

Leona loved gardening, canning and baking.  Some of her specialties were sour cream raisin pie, sugar cookies, zucchini bread, and anything made with rhubarb.  She also enjoyed sewing and quilting, having made countless quilts and bags to go with them over the years.

Leona’s Catholic faith was central in her life, something she stressed to her children and grandchildren.  She will be remembered for her strong prayer life and for her faithful example to others.

Leona is survived by her children, Patricia (Gary) Petersen of Esparto, California and Carl (Lori) Studer of Clarion; daughter-in-law Sandra Studer of Clarion; grandchildren Meghan (Dan) Derner, Jonas Studer, Collin Petersen, Christine Petersen, Austin (Juliet) Petersen, Melissa Foley, Andrew Studer, Brody Studer and Elizabeth Studer; great-grandchildren Leah, Livia, Dane, Lauren, Lara, Aveline, and Sylvia; sister Rose (Adolph) Meinders and brother Carl (Shirley) Hiemstra; brother-in-law Clifford Caquelin; sisters-in-law Viola Studer and Caroline Hiemstra; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Leona was preceded in death by her parents, husband Frank, sons Loren and Michael, sisters Arlene Caquelin and Wanda Carlson, brother Herman Hiemstra, and brother-in-law Paul Studer.

In lieu of flowers, Leona’s family suggests contributions may be made to the St. John’s Catholic Church Elevator Fund.

Click here to view Leona's Memorial Tribute Video