Long Time Gone: A Life Well-Lived in Service to Others

Leona Doris Krentz (Peters), a woman defined by strength, faith, and unwavering devotion to those she loved, passed away on April 9, 2026, at the age of 87.

She was born on January 13, 1939, in Stratton, Colorado, to Elmer and Doris Peters. Leona was the second of three children, growing up alongside her older brother, Donald Elmer, and her younger sister, Carol Lucille. She lived and attended school in Stratton until she graduated in 1957 then married a short time later.

Leona married the love of her life, John Lee Krentz, on June 30, 1957. Together they shared 68 years of marriage—a legacy of commitment, partnership, and enduring love. Their story began on a blind date in the middle of a blizzard—proof that sometimes the strongest foundations are built in the hardest conditions. From that beginning, they built a life marked by hard work, laughter, and deep devotion. John owned and operated his own construction company, and together they built not only a livelihood, but a home filled with purpose and love.

They made their home in Cheyenne Wells, Colorado, where they raised their family. To this union, five children were born in just 27 months—an incredible season of life that speaks to Leona’s strength and devotion. Their first daughter, Connie Dianne, was born in January 1958. She was followed by twins Deborah Ann and Gregory Randal in March 1959, and then another set of twins, Cheryl Lynn and Kevin Lee in April 1960.

Leona was a devoted wife, a steady partner, and John’s lifelong fishing companion. Many family vacations centered around fishing and camping—simple, meaningful times that became lifelong memories. In their younger years, John and Leona also enjoyed bowling and playing softball, and throughout their lives they shared many outings with friends, building relationships that stood the test of time.

When her children were young, Leona poured herself fully into being a stay-at-home mother. Later, when they were all in school, she went to work in the school cafeteria, first as an assistant cook for seven years, then as head cook for three more. In 1974, she stepped away from that role to care for her grandchildren, opening a daycare in her home—because caring for others wasn’t just something she did, it was who she was.

In 1976, Leona began working in the kitchen at the newly built Cheyenne Manor Nursing Home. She served there faithfully until her retirement in 1992, spending 16 years as head cook. She didn’t just feed people—she cared for them. Anyone who knew her knows that meals coming from her kitchen carried more than food—they carried comfort.

In recognition of her dedication, she was honored by the Colorado Health Care Association as Dietary Employee of the Year in 1987—an award selected from among nearly 1,500 employees across the state.

And then… there was another “honor”—one that fit her just as well.

When Leona retired, the Mayor of Cheyenne Wells, Raymond Helm presented her with an official proclamation—signed and sealed—declaring her “Bum No. 2.”

Now, that might sound unusual… but it was part of a long-running joke. The mayor would always tease her about retiring and becoming a “bum,” and Grandma, in her quiet way, took it right in stride.

That proclamation wasn’t just funny—it said something about her. She worked hard her whole life, gave everything she had to others… and when the time finally came, she earned the right to slow down, laugh a little, and enjoy it. Though rest assured Leona was no bum.

After retirement, she and John purchased a motorhome and began traveling. Their adventures almost always included fishing. They spent time in Branson, Missouri, meeting friends and enjoying shows, and in Gunnison, Colorado, and the Eads Lakes where their campsite became a gathering place for family. There was always fishing on the pontoon boat, and there was always room for one more grandchild or great-grandchild. They knew they could show up early in the morning, and Grandma would already be awake—watching, waiting, ready to welcome them.

Leona was deeply involved in her community. She was a proud member of the Rainbow Homemakers Club, where the annual Spudnut sale became a labor of love. Made from scratch and sold by the dozen, it brought together not just members, but their families—a tradition that reflected everything she valued: hard work, togetherness, and sharing with others.

She gave her time freely as a volunteer at Cheyenne Manor, helping decorate for holidays, organize celebrations, and make residents feel remembered—especially on their birthdays. Her grandchildren often joined her, learning by example what it means to care for others. She also volunteered at the local Senior Citizens Thrift Store, working shifts, helping set up seasonal displays, and assisting with meal preparation when needed.

Her church was the cornerstone of her life. Leona was an active and faithful member of the Wells of Faith church and the women’s group, helping prepare and serve countless meals. She was known for her homemade dinner rolls and butter trees—especially during the annual ornament exchange supper that welcomed women from across the community. She served in many roles over the years, never seeking recognition, only the opportunity to serve.

Leona was a gifted cook and baker. Her bread, cookies, and homemade meals were made with love, and her casseroles were second to none. Her kitchen was often filled with the comforting smells of something baking and the gentle sound of her humming hymns—a reflection of the deep faith that guided her life. Nothing ever went to waste. Even when cookies came out a little too hard, she’d smile and call them her “dunkin cookies”—meant for a warm cup of coffee.

She had a beautiful singing voice and shared it in the church choir for many years. Among close friends, she was affectionately known as “Loany,” and she treasured time spent with her church family—especially during coffee time and fellowship.

Leona had a quiet way of keeping up with everyone. Even when others didn’t realize it, she was paying attention—remembering details from conversations, following up, checking in. She wanted to know how you were really doing. And she remembered.

One of the things she especially loved in later years was the Family Album app on her iPad. Through it, children and grandchildren shared photos and videos, giving her a window into their everyday lives. She cherished those glimpses—watching her family grow, laugh, and live—and it brought her deep joy to stay connected in that way.

Her grandchildren, whom she lovingly called her “monkeyshines,” carry some of the most treasured memories. Sleepovers filled with laughter, wearing Grandpa’s t-shirts, and waking to the smell of pancakes and bacon cooking in the kitchen. To many of them, she wasn’t just Grandma—she was a second mom. She always had time, always had room, and they always wanted to stay.

Family reunions were another highlight, often held at the lake, filled with extended family, laughter, and tradition. Generations gathered, memories were made, and bonds were strengthened. Leona was blessed to witness five generations of her family during her lifetime.

Leona was strong. Steadfast. Unwavering. She was sweet, kind, loving, and helpful, with a joyful spirit and a smile that could light up a room. Though soft-spoken, she was never afraid to speak the truth and call things as she saw them when needed. She carried just enough sass to keep things honest—and just enough grace to keep everything grounded.

Her life was not lived loudly—but it was lived fully. In the quiet, steady ways that matter most. In showing up. In caring. In loving without condition.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Doris Peters; her granddaughter, Rone Jean Kliesen; son-in-law, Robert Kliesen; her father- and mother-in-law, Fred and Marie Krentz; her brother, Donald; her sister, Carol; her brother-in-law, Ronnie Krentz; and her sister-in-law, Karen McKim.

She is survived by her beloved husband, John Lee Krentz; her five children: Connie (Steve) Dickey, Deb Kliesen, Greg (Carla) Krentz, Cheryl Krentz, and Kevin (Linda) Krentz; 20 grandchildren; 52 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.

She lived her life with a deep and steady faith, and in moments like this, we hold on to the promises found in Scripture. John, chapter 14 verses 1-4.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me so that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”

May we find comfort in knowing she is home.