James F. Lenning, 93, of Humboldt, passed away September 26, 2014 at the Humboldt County Memorial Hospital. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at the Congregational United Church of Christ in Humboldt. The Adams American Legion Post 119 and Sathers-Odgaard VFW Post 5240 will perform military Rites. Visitation is from 5-7 p.m. Monday at the Mason-Lindhart Funeral Home in Humboldt.
James is survived by his son, Larry (Marcia) Lenning of Humboldt; foster daughter, Karen (Denny) Clark of Tennessee; grandchildren, Brenda (Jerry) Kramer, Aaron (Diane) Lenning, and Jarod Lenning; great grandchildren, Brittny Kramer, Megan Kramer, Jacob Lenning, and Topher Lenning. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty; sisters, Genevieve Newton and Mildred Newton; and brother, Helmer Lenning.
James Fredrick Lenning, the son of Severen and Tille (Helvick) Lenning, was born July 20, 1921 on a farm in Humboldt County. He received his education in country schools and Thor High School. He was united in marriage to Betty Gates on December 1, 1941. In 1943, Jim was drafted into the United States Army Infantry and saw action in France and Germany. Following his honorable discharge, Jim returned home and worked as a hired man for Harold Ropte. He then began farming on his own. In addition to their farming operations, Jim also raised sheep, had quarter horses, and kept a dairy herd for many years. He and Betty farmed together in Beaver Township until 2005 when they moved into Humboldt. In 2012 they became residents of the Humboldt Care Center North. Betty passed away in January of 2013.
Jim was a member of the Congregational United Church of Christ. He was proud of his service on the Humboldt Mutual Board, The Humboldt County Fair Board, and his 50-year membership in the Masonic Lodge. He was also a member of the Badger Saddle Club and loved to square dance with Betty. He enjoyed golfing, bowling, playing pool, gardening and the 25 winters they spent in Texas.