Lena E. Drinkwine

Lena E. Drinkwine, formerly of Mondovi, passed away peacefully with loving family at her side on November 19, 2023, at Hillview Health Care Center in La Crosse, WI.

Lena, the youngest of eight children, was born on December 15, 1928, in the Town of Worden in Clark County, Wisconsin to the late Otto and Mary (Pingel) Beckman. 

Education held great importance for Lena, and she attended and graduated from Thorp High School with the Class of 1946. 

Lena was united in marriage to Arbor E. Drinkwine on April 3, 1948 at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church in Eau Claire.  To this beloved union, five children were born.  Arbor preceded Lena in death on December 30, 2003.  For 55 years, Arbor would always say that Lena was the best thing that ever happened to him.

During WWII, Lena helped with the family farm before moving to Eau Claire. She began her employment as a typist before embarking on a new chapter in her life when she met her husband. She then dedicated herself to creating a warm and loving home as a homemaker. In 1978, Lena ventured back into the workforce and joined the Omaha World Herald, where she served faithfully for many years. Later, she worked as a nursing home CNA and physical therapy assistant in Mondovi until her retirement in 1992.

Lena was a lady of great faith and a deep love for her Lord and Savior. This faith and love was evident throughout her life. She was a lifelong member of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod starting with her baptism on Christmas Eve in 1929. She was a devoted member of each congregation of which she was a member. She taught 7^th grade confirmation classes for many years at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in International Falls, Minnesota, was a member of The Ladies Society as well as the church treasurer for several years at Zion Lutheran Church in Mondovi and, later, became a member of Faith Lutheran Church in La Crosse.  Her church family was a very important part of her life. 

As a child, Lena enjoyed sitting with her father and listening to Cubs games on the radio. In later years, she enjoyed watching the Brewers play on TV. Lena will be remembered as a wonderful and talented seamstress. She enjoyed sewing for her four girls and many of the special occasions in their lives. She will be remembered as the best cook ever. Her recipes and special tips will be used for generations to come. Her greatest attribute and memory that she leaves with us is her loving, unselfish and giving soul.

Lena was preceded in death by her loving husband Arbor E. Drinkwine; their son Arbor D. Drinkwine; their daughter Babette Ann Robertson; son-in-law Chris Conroe, as well as her brothers Arnie and Lawrence and her sisters Irene, Meta, Marge, Susan, and Hilda. 

Lena's warm presence and beautiful smile will be missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing her. She touched countless lives with her kindness and generosity. Her dedication to her family and friends was unwavering.

Lena is survived by her children Nicci (Dennis), Christine (Kevin), and Sharon (Arnie). Her legacy also lives on through her 11 cherished grandchildren: Colleen, Jenny, Mike, Steve (Emily), Mathew (Jessica), Marissa (Tario), Danielle (Chris), Wade (Courtney), Clint, Mitchell, and Jackie (Casey). Additionally, Lena leaves behind several adoring great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Lena's services will be held at Faith Lutheran Church located at 1407 Main St, La Crosse, WI 54601. The visitation will take place on December 2, 2023, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM. The committal service will be at 3:30 PM at the Rock Falls Cemetery.

Lena’s family wishes to thank the staff of Hillview Health Care Center for the loving care Lena received as a resident.

Talbot Family Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements.  www.talbotfuneralhomes.com