Earl L. Cleven

Earl Lewis Cleven, 77, passed away on Friday, July 4, 2025, surrounded by family and loved ones. He is survived by his wife, Diane (Cornick) Cleven, daughters Jessie Pendergrast and Katie (Nick Grangruth) Richards, grandsons Jaxon, Griffyn, and Ryker Richards, Nolen and Henry Pendergrast, and sister Karen (Cleven) Briggs, along with many sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. 

Earl was born February 11, 1948, to Lewis and Orlean (Katzung) Cleven, residing in Thompson, IA, and Keister, MN, before settling in Ellendale, MN.  In 1968, Earl proudly served his country in the U.S. Army as a combat engineer stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina, with the 82nd Airborne Division, where his dedication to duty and honor made a lasting impact.  He was honorably discharged in 1971 and continued his service by proudly joining the Patriot Guard Riders and the American Legion. 

On October 26, 1974, he married the love of his life, Diane (Cornick).  For 50 years, they created a beautiful life filled with adventures and a deep love and respect for each other. Their journey took them to Houston, TX, where his “yellow roses”, Katie and Jessie, were born, of whom he was very proud.  He nobly provided for his family by working in electrical construction for 10 years before returning to Ellendale, MN, where he continued to support his family at Universal Cooperatives for 20 years.  After retiring, he maintained his strong work ethic by working for Jim Dobberstein to haul peas and corn for 13 years.

Earl never stopped looking for a good adventure and always included his family in his passions.  He joined the Moto Guzzi Owners Club and eventually became its president, directing numerous rallies with his wife and the “Earls Girls” by his side.  Texas wasn’t the only journey traveled by Earl.  He and Diane wintered in Port Charlotte, FL, visited Germany, Spain, Morocco, Mexico, and the Caribbean Islands, always with his family by his side.  Still, there was nothing better than a quiet read on the patio or a crackling bonfire surrounded by friends and family (and maybe a few beers!).

Earl was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes.  He was a hard worker and great provider, reminding us there’s no such thing as a free lunch, but his wife and daughters will always see him as the go-getter who loved honestly.

Friends and family are invited to attend Earl’s Celebration of Life held at Edgewater Bay Pavilion (1940 Edgewater Drive) in Albert Lea, MN, on Thursday, July 17, from 2:00-4:00 pm.