Many here knew Earl who ran the MN club for many years.
Earl Lewis Cleven, 77, passed away on Friday,
July 4, 2025, surrounded by family and loved
ones. He is survived by his wife, Diane
(Cornick) Cleven, daughters Jessie
Pendergrast and Katie (Nick Grangruth)
Richards, grandsons Jaxon, Griffyn, and Ryker
Richards, Nolen and Henry Pendergrast, and
sister Karen (Cleven) Briggs, along with many
sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
Earl was born February 11, 1948, to Lewis and
Orlean (Katzung) Cleven, residing in
Thompson, IA, and Keister, MN, before settling
in Ellendale, MN. In 1968, Earl proudly served
his country in the U.S. Army as a combat
engineer stationed at Fort Campbell,
Kentucky, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina, with
the 82nd Airborne Division, where his
dedication to duty and honor made a lasting
impact. He was honorably discharged in 1971
and continued his service by proudly joining
the Patriot Guard Riders and the American Legion.
On October 26, 1974, he married the love of his life, Diane (Cornick). For 50 years, they created a
beautiful life filled with adventures and a deep love and respect for each other. Their journey took
them to Houston, TX, where his “yellow roses”, Katie and Jessie, were born, of whom he was very
proud. He nobly provided for his family by working in electrical construction for 10 years before
returning to Ellendale, MN, where he continued to support his family at Universal Cooperatives for
20 years. After retiring, he maintained his strong work ethic by working for Jim Dobberstein to haul
peas and corn for 13 years.
Earl never stopped looking for a good adventure and always included his family in his passions. He
joined the Moto Guzzi Owners Club and eventually became its president, directing numerous rallies
with his wife and the “Earls Girls” by his side. Texas wasn’t the only journey traveled by Earl. He and
Diane wintered in Port Charlotte, FL, visited Germany, Spain, Morocco, Mexico, and the Caribbean
Islands, always with his family by his side. Still, there was nothing better than a quiet read on the
patio or a crackling bonfire surrounded by friends and family (and maybe a few beers!).
Earl was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. He was a hard worker and great
provider, reminding us there’s no such thing as a free lunch, but his wife and daughters will always
see him as the go-getter who loved honestly.
Friends and family are invited to attend Earl’s Celebration of Life held at Edgewater Bay Pavilion
(1940 Edgewater Drive) in Albert Lea, MN, on Thursday, July 17, from 2:00-4:00 pm
Cleven Family
3508 Hoeger Lane
Albert Lea, MN 56007
