Clifford R. Lenning was born on August 2, 1935 in Brookings, SD the son of Fred and Marie (Casberg) Lenning. He died on Saturday, September 2, 2006, in Brookings at the age of 71. Clifford had his beautiful wife and family at his side, when God took him home.

Clifford was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. He received his education in Bruce, SD. Clifford spent the majority of his life in the Bruce and Brookings, SD area. After receiving his education he was employed as a mechanic for Andy Perry in Bruce. He later moved to Cavour, SD to live with his brother and sister-in-law (Lloyd and Maxine) and was employed at the Red Owl Store in Huron, SD. On one of his trips back to Bruce, he met and fell in love with his wife Corlyis Langland whom he married on October 1, 1955 in Estelline, SD. Clifford and Corlyis spent their lives in Brookings where Clifford worked as a finish carpenter, general contractor and cabinet maker in the homebuilding industry.

He enjoyed music, playing several different instruments, and having coffee with all his coffee buddies. He also rebuilt, refinished and tuned pianos. He especially enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Clifford is survived by his wife Corlyis of Brookings, SD; three daughters Connie Nielsen (Randy) of Colman, SD, Cathy Myers (Loyd) of Rapid City, SD, Colleen VanMaanen of Mitchell, SD; one son Craig Lenning (Carol) of Salem, OR; 12 grandchildren; one step granddaughter; eight great grandchildren; two step great-grandsons; two brothers Stanley Lenning (Marlys) of Sioux Falls, SD, Lloyd Lenning (Maxine) of Huron, SD; four sisters Hazel Ching (Dick) of Watertown, SD, Palma Kreger of Clear lake, SD, Florence Hintz (Robert) of Arlington, SD, Joyce Svennes (Dale) of Brookings, SD; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Morris and Art and four sisters Hulda L.,Hazel M. Lenning, Joyce C., and Eunice Colberg.