MACKLEIT, Leona Hazel (age 95), longtime LaCrosse resident, passed away August 28, 2007 at the Whitman Hospital & Medical Center in Colfax. She was born June 15, 1912 in Ukiah, Oregon to Milford and Maude Hayden Martin. Leona’s father worked for the Union Pacific Railroad, which moved the family around a lot. They moved from Ukiah to Garfield in a covered wagon and she remained in the Palouse area for the rest of her life. She went to the Colfax schools through 11th grade.
Leona married Carl Mackleit in January of 1931 and they farmed together in LaCrosse, WA until Carl’s death in 1979. She enjoyed reading, puzzles, crocheting, knitting, and collecting dolls from the many different countries that she enjoyed traveling to. Leona was a great cook and loved spending time with her family. When she was younger, she was a part of the Farm Club and later was a member of the Civil Air Patrol, Palouse Empire Fair in Ceramics, Washington Wheat Association, the Thrifty Grandmother’s Club, Whitman Hospital Auxiliary, LaCrosse School Board, LaCrosse United Methodist Women and was a member of the LaCrosse United Methodist Church for over 50 years.
Leona is survived by her 4 sons and their wives, Ray and Margaret Mackleit of LaCrosse, Robert and Connie Mackleit of Spokane Valley, WA, George and Harriet Mackleit of Colfax and Dennis and Alice Mackleit of LaCrosse, WA; a sister, Vivian Shrewsbury of Moses Lake, WA; 14 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren in addition to 1 on the way and 2 great-great-grandchildren also in addition to 1 on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Carl, and her siblings, Warren, Richard, Thelma and Madeline.
A Graveside Vault Interment Service will be held Saturday, September 1, 2007 at 4 PM at the Colfax Cemetery. The family suggests memorials be made to the Whitman Hospital Auxiliary or to the Thrifty Grandmother’s Club. Bruning Funeral Home, Colfax, WA is caring for the family. On-line condolences at www.bruningfuneralhome.com. [1]
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