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Obituary - Leona Doris Krentz

Leona Doris Krentz of Cheyenne Wells passed away April 9, 2026.

Leona was born January 13, 1939, in Stratton to Elmer and Doris Peters. She grew up alongside her brother, Don, and sister, Carol and graduated from Stratton High School in 1957. Shortly after, she married the love of her life, John Lee Krentz, June 30, 1957. Their 68 years of marriage were a testament to enduring love, faith, and partnership.

Together they made their home in Cheyenne Wells, where they raised five children: Connie, Deb, Greg, Cheryl, and Kevin. Raising five children in just over two years was no small task, but Leona carried it with strength, grace, and unwavering devotion. She created a home filled with love, stability, and care.

Leona dedicated her life to serving others. She worked in the school cafeteria, later becoming head cook, and opened a daycare in her home to care for children and grandchildren. She then spent 16 years as head cook at Cheyenne Manor Nursing Home, where she was known not only for her meals but for the comfort and kindness she gave to residents. In recognition of her dedication, she was honored by the Colorado Health Care Association as a Dietary Employee of the Year—an award selected from among nearly 1,500 employees across the state.

She was deeply involved in her church and community, faithfully serving in women’s groups, preparing meals, and volunteering wherever she was needed. She was especially known for her homemade bread, dinner rolls, and her cherished butter trees at Christmastime - small, beautiful touches that made holidays feel warm and special for everyone around her.

Leona found joy in life’s simple moments - fishing and camping with John, traveling in their motorhome, and gathering with family. Her campsite was a place of laughter and connection, especially for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she lovingly called her “monkeyshines.” To many of them, she was more than a grandmother - she was a second mom.

She was a woman of quiet strength, steady faith, and genuine kindness. Though soft-spoken, she carried wisdom, honesty, and a deep care for others, always paying attention to the little things that mattered most.

Leona was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Doris Peters; siblings, Don and Carol; granddaughter, Rone Jean Kliesen; son-in-law, Robert Kliesen; and other beloved family members.

She is survived by her husband, John Lee Krentz; children, Connie (Steve) Dickey of Bayard, Nebraska; Deb Kliesen of Eads, Greg (Carla) Krentz of Wathena, Kansas, Cheryl Krentz of Goodland, Kansas, and Kevin (Linda) Krentz of Cameron, Missouri; 20 grandchildren; 52 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.

Leona’s life was a testament to love in action, shown through service, faith, and devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.