Leona was born on a farm in the community of Harrington Washington to Jacob and Martha (Witt) Mann. She was the youngest of four children. Her siblings: Elsie (Alvin) Ottmar, Arthur (Phyllis) Mann and Ella Mae (Warren) Cook, all preceded Leona in death. Leona attended Harrington schools and graduated in 1951. After high school, she attended Whitworth College for one year, followed by 3 years of nurses training. While she was studying to be a nurse, Leona met her beloved Hugo Meske, and they were married August 11, 1956. Hugo and Leona were blessed with two children, Phillip (1957) and Elaine (1962).
In 1968 the Meskes bought 40 acres of property at Colbert and had a home built in 1970. Phillip passed away April of 2014. Phil’s wife, Kathleen and three children: Jacob, Shannon and James reside in California. Elaine married Brian Sherer and they have two children, Zachary and Lindsey. Hugo Meske passed away from a stroke and Parkinson’s in February of 2012.
Leona retired from nursing in 1995, from Deaconess Hospital. She and Hugo enjoyed working together, gardening, raising cattle, and fishing with family. Leona has continued to live in her home, despite some medical problems, with the aid of a walker and devoted care-givers.
Leona was a member of Colbert Chapel since 1971; she led Bible studies in her home and served the church in various capacities. She will be greatly missed by her loving family and friends. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Colbert Chapel Memorial Fund.
