Nellie Serena Swenson Benage was born November 21, 1885, the daughter of Ole and Larsine (Larson) Swenson, in Friendship Township, Yellow Medicine County, Minnesota. She was baptized into the Lutheran faith by Rev. Lokensgaard and was confirmed in Clarkfield Lutheran Church on May 27, 1900, by Rev. O.O. Farseth. She was united in marriage to Joseph Vernon Benage on January 31, 1907, by Pastor J.B. Reinertson of Clarkfield Lutheran Church. This union was blessed with three children: George of Hutchinson, Minnesota, Lylah (Mrs. Joe Yankovic) of St. Paul, Minnesota, and Evalyn (Mrs. Emmitt Haraldson) of Hutchinson. Mr. Benage developed a serious heart condition and the home was saddened by the death of the father and husband when he passed away at the age of 34 years on April 26, 1913. Mrs. Nellie Benage's health also failed. She spent some time at hospitals but lived in Clarkfield for many years. The past year, however, she spent at a nursing home and hospital. She passed away suddenly from a heart attack, Monday, February 17, 1964, in Willmar, Minnesota, at the age of 78 years. She is survived by one sister, Mrs. Thea Christensen, her three children: one daughter-in-law; two sons-in-law; 19 grandchildren; 32 great grandchildren; 16 nieces and nephews besides other relatives. Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband, two brothers and two sisters. November 21, 1885 ~February 17, 1964 Funeral Services Thursday, February 20, 1964, 2:00 p.m. Clarkfield Lutheran Church, Clarkfield, Minnesota Clergy Officiating, Rev. C. M. Bagaason Organist, Mrs. Ronald Donner Vocal Duet, Mrs. Howard Carlson and Mrs. Stanley Carlson "What a Friend We Have In Jesus" "Rock of Ages" Casket Bearers Richard Haraldson ~ Lamore Yankovic George Benage, Jr. ~ Robert Benage Joe Yankovic ~ James Benage Final Resting Place Clarkfield City Cemetery Clarkfield, Minnesota Arrangements by Lynner Funeral Home Since 1891 Clarkfield Minnesota