Doris Cleven, a cherished member of the Grygla and Warroad communities, was born on August 7, 1934, in Hamre Township, rural Grygla, Minnesota, the daughter of Oliver and Serine (Tanem) Howland. Doris passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, at Warroad Senior Living, with her loving family by her side.

Doris's life was deeply rooted in the farming traditions and community spirit of her upbringing. She was baptized and confirmed at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in rural Grygla and attended various local schools, graduating from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. On September 3, 1955, Doris married Harlan Milton Cleven at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. Together, they established a loving home on the Cleven Family Farm, where Doris and Harlan raised their three children: Verlene, Milo, and Michael.

An integral part of the family farm, Doris worked alongside Harlan in managing the cattle and small grain farming operations. She excelled as a homemaker, bringing warmth and love to her home through her exceptional skills in cooking, baking, gardening, and canning. Her family fondly remembers her dedication to taking care of the kids and grandkids, appreciating her joyful spirit.

Doris was a classy lady, characterized by a beautiful smile, vibrant personality, and a welcoming demeanor that made everyone feel at ease. She was kind, wise, and loved spending time with her family. Doris enjoyed playing cards and games with family and friends throughout her life, with a notable fondness for Rook in her early days. She took great care in processing venison and cherished moments spent at the family cabin in Fourtown, where she enjoyed Razor rides among other family activities.

Throughout her life, Doris maintained her deep connections within the community by attending Zion Lutheran Church in Warroad and volunteering for local blood drives. Her early years included time at the Log Church, where her passion for service began. Her pursuits also encompassed activities such as quilting, hand embroidery, listening to music, going on pontoon rides, and picking blueberries and choke cherries.

Doris is survived by her three children, Verlene (Kermit) Jensen of Warroad, MN; Milo (Tammy) Cleven of Warroad, MN; and Michael (Crystal) Cleven of Bemidji, MN. She was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren: Tony (Nichole), Matt (Ana), Wendy (Aaron), Jackie (Danny), Abby (Jake), Kristi (Courtney), Neiko (Amber), John, and Cooper, along with 20 great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. Doris is also remembered by her sister, Lynette Ashton of Cypress, CA; brother-in-law, Charles Cleven of Warroad, MN; sister-in-law, Ardelle Bryant of Tulsa, OK; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Doris was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harlan, on September 12, 1994; her parents, Oliver and Serine (Tanem) Howland; great-granddaughter, Alliya Jensen; father and mother-in-law, Hans and Hilda Cleven; her siblings, Marian (John) Harris, Blanche (Raymond) Bakken, Vernon (Carol) Howland, Oral (Barb) Howland, along with brothers-in-law, Thad Ashton, Albert (Gloria) Cleven, and Charles Bryant; and sister-in-law, Margie Cleven.

Doris Cleven will be remembered for her generous spirit, unwavering love for her family, and the countless lives she touched throughout her remarkable journey.

Visitation will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Grygla, MN on January 9, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a 6:30 PM prayer service, followed by a funeral service on January 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Grace Lutheran Church, with a reception to follow. Rev. Marilyn Grafstrom will officiate. Burial will be at Bethesda “Log Church” Cemetery, rural Grygla, MN. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.