Longtime Lake Forest Hospital Volunteer Dies

The following obituary is courtesy of Wenban Funeral Home.

Mona E. Strenger (nee Benson), 93, passed away peacefully at home on September 21, 2015, surrounded by family and loved ones. She was born September 4, 1922, in Highland Park, IL, to Alfred and Signe Benson. In 1948 she married Donald S. Strenger and moved to Lake Forest, where she lived for the rest of her life. Mona had a strong commitment to service and gave generously of her time and talents. For 16 years she served as Shields Township Trustee, the first woman elected to serve the township and one of the township’s longest-serving elected officials. When her husband, Don, passed away, Mona filled his position as Lake County Board Commissioner. Up until this summer, she was a stalwart at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, having volunteered in various capacities for more than 42 years. She had been a member of the hospital’s Women’s Board since 1988, at times holding positions on its Executive Board. Mona was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest for nearly 70 years. She served the church in wide ranging roles, including Sunday School teacher, scout leader, Elder, Deacon, General Chairman of the Rummage, Chancel Guild, Hospitality Minister and member of the Presbyterian Women’s Board. Mona’s love of and achievements in golf were legendary. Despite physical adversity, she continued to play into her 90s. She was Class A champion of Deerpath Golf Course three times, won several awards and trophies and was a guiding force in the three golf leagues to which she currently belonged. Mona had the rare ability to appeal to all generations. She was lauded for her strong and determined approach to life. That strength, along with a quick wit and brilliant blue eyes were her signature. She was the devoted mother of Donald S. Strenger, Jr., Jan E. Strenger and Gale (Robert) Strenger Wayne. She is also survived by step-grandchildren Joshua (Bettina) Wayne and Jamie (Michael) McKanna; great grandsons Adam and Noah McKanna and Hunter Wayne; close companion and caregiver Mary Hollins; and many nieces and nephews. Mona was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, her sister Ruth Moon, and brothers John Benson and Robert Benson. Services will be held Saturday, October 3, and 11:00 am at First Presbyterian Church, 700 N Sheridan Road, Lake Forest. Interment is private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Homeward Bound Pet Rescue, 111 W 3rd Street, Yankton, SD 57078 would be greatly appreciated. Info at www.wenbanfh.com or 847-234-0022.