Leona G. Converse

Leona Reukema Converse, age 98, passed away peacefully at her home on July 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was blessed to remain in the home she cherished until the end of her life. Born on March 9, 1928, in Berkeley, California, Leona was the first child of Lester and Genevieve Reukema. She lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and service to others. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, neighbor, and friend whose warmth and hospitality made everyone feel welcome. For more than 50 years, Leona dedicated her time as a volunteer at the OSU Thrift Store. She believed strongly in supporting local businesses and was known throughout her community as an excellent neighbor and a dependable friend. Her home was a place of welcome, and she delighted in sharing visits, conversations, and meals with family and friends. Leona cultivated friendships that spanned the globe and maintained many of them through annual letters, faithfully keeping in touch with people she cherished throughout her life. Her thoughtfulness, curiosity, and genuine interest in others created lasting connections that endured for decades. She found joy in life's simple pleasures; tending her flowers, caring for her birds, writing letters, and spending time with the family she loved so deeply. Leona is survived by her son, Frank Converse; her daughter-in-law, Beth Johnson; her son and daughter-in-law, Jim Roe III and Glenda Roe; her grandson and his wife, Jim Roe IV and Brea Roe, and their children, Evy, Ony, Bubby, and Jack; her granddaughter and her husband, Heather and Jeff Heidrick, and their children, Lilian, Carson (Lilian's fiancé), Magnolia, Dahlia, and Marigold; and her grandson and his wife, Frank and Ashley Roe. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Converse; her daughter, Nancy Roe; and her son, Paul Converse. Leona's legacy is one of generosity, faithfulness, hospitality, and love. Through her volunteer service, her friendships around the world, her care for her community, and her devotion to her family, she left an enduring mark on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished. The family takes comfort in knowing that Leona lived a full and meaningful life and that she passed peacefully, surrounded by those who loved her most.

Tributes

Leona G. Converse

March 9, 1928 - July 1, 2026