Grygla, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — Doris Cleven, a longtime member of the Grygla and Warroad communities, died December 31, 2025.
She was 91.
Her family said she died at Warroad Senior Living Center in Warroad.
They said family members were at her side.
Early life
Doris was born August 7, 1934, in Hamre Township near Grygla.
Her parents were Oliver Howland and Serine (Tanem) Howland.
She was baptized and confirmed at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in rural Grygla.
She attended area schools while growing up.
She later graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls.
Marriage and farm life
Doris married Harlan Milton Cleven on September 3, 1955.
The wedding was held at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church.
The couple built their home on the Cleven family farm.
They raised three children.
They are Verlene, Milo, and Michael.
Family said Doris worked alongside Harlan on the farm.
She helped with cattle work and small grain farming.
Family said she also ran a busy home.
Known for kindness and service
Relatives described Doris as warm and welcoming.
They said she had a bright smile and an easy laugh.
They said she was known for cooking and baking.
Her garden and canned goods were part of family life.
She enjoyed cards and games with friends and family.
Her family said she loved playing Rook.
She also enjoyed quilting and hand embroidery.
She liked music and time outdoors.
Family said she picked blueberries and chokecherries.
She also processed venison for the family.
She spent time at a family cabin near Fourtown.
Family said she enjoyed Razor rides at the cabin.
In later years, Doris attended Zion Lutheran Church in Warroad.
Her family said she also volunteered at local blood drives.
Survivors
Doris is survived by her three children.
They are Verlene (Kermit) Jensen of Warroad.
They are Milo (Tammy) Cleven of Warroad.
They are Michael (Crystal) Cleven of Bemidji.
She is also survived by nine grandchildren, her family said.
She is also survived by 20 great-grandchildren, her family said.
Survivors include her sister, Lynette Ashton of Cypress, California.
Survivors also include in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Preceded in death
Doris was preceded in death by her husband, Harlan.
Her family said he died on September 12, 1994.
She was also preceded in death by her parents.
She was also preceded in death by her great-granddaughter, Alliya Jensen.
Her family also listed several siblings and in-laws who died earlier.
Service details
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
A prayer service is planned for 6:30 p.m.
The events will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Grygla.
A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
The funeral will also be at the church.
A reception will follow the service.
Burial will be at Bethesda “Log Church” Cemetery in rural Grygla.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.