Edward James Clemen was born June 22, 1924 in Ipswich, South Dakota, the son of George and Catherine (Litzen) Clemen. He was baptized and confirmed at Holy Cross Church in Ipswich. Edward grew up and attended school in South Dakota and later moved to Minnesota in 1938, where he graduated high school. Edward served his country in the United States Army from 1951 to 1952. On September 3, 1949, Edward was united in marriage to Arlene Suter at St. Bridgets Catholic Church in De Graff by Father McKeever. They were blessed with seven children and 60 years of marriage. While farming in the De Graff area, Edward also worked a few years at Quinns Implement in Benson. In 1995, he retired and moved to Benson. He served on the Dublin Township Board and served as an usher and a council member at St. Bridgets. He enjoyed farming, traveling, dancing, cards, and meeting friends for coffee. Edward was called from this life on Thursday, April 8, 2010, at Meadow Lane Health Care Center in Benson. He attained the age of 85 years, 9 months and 16 days. Edward is survived by his wife Arlene of Benson; his children: William (Kathy) Clemen of Appleton, Merina (Wayne) Marotzke of Dawson, Virginia (Kent) Siefkes of Raleigh, NC, Thomas Clemen and his fiancé Sue, of De Graff, Richard (Diane) Clemen of Exton, PA, John (Brenda) Clemen of Apple Valley, and Lisa Clemen of Superior, WI; nine grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his parents, George and Catherine, and a grandson, Travis Marotzke.
