Janan Carol Beenken

Janan Carol Beenken, 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 21, 2025, at Whispering Oaks Place in Ellendale, MN, with her loving family by her side. Janan was born on January 5, 1936, in Albert Lea, Minnesota, to the late Vernon and Ellen (Olson) Hellie. On November 4, 1956, Janan married her beloved husband, Clarence Floyd Beenken, and together they embarked on a journey filled with love, family, and shared adventures. 

A proud graduate of Naeve Hospital School of Nursing in 1956, she dedicated over 40 years of her life to the nursing profession, serving with grace and commitment at various institutions, including the former Hancock County Memorial Hospital in Britt, IA, St. Olaf Hospital in Austin, MN, and the former Naeve Hospital in her hometown of Albert Lea.

Janan's career was a source of great pride, and her passion for nursing was evident in the way she cared for her patients with an unwavering spirit. In addition to her professional life, she was actively involved in her community, including the Red Cross.

Janan was a member of East Freeborn Lutheran Church where she was involved in many activities. Known for her generosity, social nature, and warm smile, she loved nothing more than quilting, baking, watching the Minnesota Twins, and engaging in spirited card games with family and friends.

Janan's green thumb brought beauty into her surroundings, and her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the aromas of her kitchen. She was a devoted mother and a grandmother whose love and support left an indelible mark on the hearts of her family.

Those left to cherish Janan’s memory include four children, Thomas (Deb) Beenken, Carole (Randy) Jenson, James (Tammy) Beenken, and Michael (Julie) Beenken; 12 grandchildren, Tina (Bill) Pannkuk, Jeremy (Becky) Beenken, Lori (Scott) Ranney, Mary (Troy) Thompson, Nicholas Jenson, Janna (Jeff) Johnson, Jennifer (Pete) Hoffman, Alex Beenken, Jady (Alrik) Mattson, Kiley (David) Lassahn, Emily (Marc Nelson) Beenken, and Brady (Andrew) Beenken-Adams; 18 great-grandchildren; sister, Linda (Jim) Stahley; numerous nieces, nephews, and several extended family members. In addition to her parents, Vernon and Ellen Olson, Janan was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Clarence Beenken. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 28, 2025 at the East Freeborn Lutheran Church. Pastor Matthew Griggs will officiate. Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00PM on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be in the East Freeborn Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed.

Memorial contributions may be made to the East Freeborn Lutheran Church or the Naeve Alumni and Nurses’ Club Nursing Scholarship program.