Luanna Darling Cheney

Luanna Darling Cheney, a beacon of love, compassion, and selflessness, was called to her heavenly home at the Northfield Retirement Community on August 4, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on October 28, 1937, in Faribault, Minnesota, Luanna was a cherished daughter to George and Edna Lee Hanson. She spent her formative years in Kenyon, where she completed her high school education and later pursued her passion for nursing at the St Lucas Hospital School of Nursing in Faribault.
Luanna's life was enriched by her beloved husband of 67 years, Gary Cheney. She was introduced to Gary by his sister, Donna who was also attending the nursing school. Gary and Luanna were an instant match and united in holy matrimony on January 12, 1958 in Kenyon. The couple embraced life's adventures, moving from St. Paul to Oklahoma during Gary's Army service. They returned to Bloomington with their first adopted son Richard. Shortly after returning to Minnesota, they adopted their daughter Debra and son Darryl. Gary and Luanna finally built their dream home and settled in Northfield, Minnesota. It was here that they lovingly raised, Richard, Debra, and Darryl. A devoted Christian, Luanna lived her faith through her actions, serving as a compassionate nurse throughout her career. She would go on to work as a nurse at Ancker Hospital, St Barnabas, Northfield Hospital, and Northfield Retirement Center. Her caring nature and expressions of faith extended beyond her professional life into her personal interests. She was a gifted writer, contributing to various periodicals, and found great joy in nurturing her gardens. Luanna's greatest joy, however, was the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, nurturing them with love. Along the way she supported countless faith outreach groups, charities, and enthusiastically rescued stray cats and dogs.
Luanna's life was a testament to the virtues of kindness and selflessness. She was a loving wife, a caring mother, and a cherished friend. Her memory will be held in the hearts of all who knew her as a symbol of unwavering love and dedication. As we bid farewell to Luanna, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey marked by extraordinary compassion, and a spirit that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Luanna is survived by her husband, Gary; children: Richard of Texas and Darryl (Beth) of Arizona; grandchildren: Brent (Liz)Cheney, Erin (Richard) Lawless; great grandchildren: Charlie and Oliver Cheney; and nephews: Jim, Doug, Mike, Dan, and Steve Hanson, Mark Strandemo, and nieces Ann Stensland and Mary Ohland.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Edna, daughter Debra Cheney; brothers George Hanson Jr., Donald and Ed Mentz, Sr., sister Eileen Strandemo, nephews Phil Hanson, Davis and Gary Strandemo, and niece Janet Hartman
A memorial service will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Life21 Church in Northfield. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church and a reception will follow at the church.
Funeral arrangements are trusted to Bierman, Benson & Langehough Funeral Home & Crematory. www.northfieldfuneral.com