Leland Akovenko

Leland H. Akovenko, age 75, Bismarck, North Dakota, passed away on April 20, 2024.  

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, April 27, 2024 at Grace Lutheran Church 402 4th St. W, McClusky, ND.

Leland was born in a blizzard on December 15, 1948 at the family home with a mid-wife attending in McClusky, North Dakota.

He graduated from McClusky High School in 1966.  He was very active in basketball, football, and track.  Leland took first place in four track events consisting of the 100-yard dash, 220-yard dash, 440-yard relay and high jump. After graduation Leland attended Valley City State on a scholarship.  

Leland married Debbie Rose in June of 1976 in which they had three children, Kelly, Amy, and Chad.

Leland worked for local farmers, helped construct the McClusky Canal and did local carpentry work.   Leland and Debbie also owned Our Place Tavern for seven years.  He worked for Boxelder Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center in Nemo, South Dakota as a Lead Carpenter for 15 years until retiring in 2010.  In between working and following his retirement he helped build a hunting cabin North of McClusky.  Leland loved woodworking, hunting, and fishing.  He especially enjoyed learning about history and reminiscing about the old days, old cars, old friends and talking about his family who he loved so much.

Leland is survived by his loving friend, Dianne Moch; children, Kelly (Dave) Nagel; Amy (Dan) Kraemer; Chad (Misty) Akovenko; grandchildren,  Madison (Dylan) Nyhusmoen, Parker Nagel, Justin (Melissa) Nagel, Casey Nagel, Tanner Nagel; Jaden Welk, Macie Welk, Marshall Kraemer, Thea Kraemer; Cage Akovenko, Case Akovenko and Mazey Akovenko; great-grandchildren,  Bryker Nyhusmoen and Remington Nyhusmoen; and siblings, Jim (Sue) Akovenko; Margaret (Rod) Schwandt; Gary Akovenko; Susie (Brian) Welch and Mike (Tammy) Akovenko.

He preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Melvey Akovenko.

Any monetary gifts will be used to plant trees at the hunting cabin located in Sheridan County.