Albert R. Iken

Albert Roy Iken, of Lennox, South Dakota passed from this life on September 14, 2025 at the age of 82. Born in Sioux Falls on December 3, 1942 to parents Okke and Johanna Iken, Albert grew up in Lennox where he met his wife Lorna Tronson after her car needed attention and she called the mechanic shop where he worked. The cost for the fix was a date and the rest is history, the two were married on April 11, 1964 at First English Lutheran Church in Lennox. Albert worked for many years as an auto mechanic at Don Leonard’s Auto Shop, Cenex, and Great Plains Supply, all in Lennox. He and Ken Klinger also drove campers from Elkhart, Indiana and delivered them to Jack’s Campers in Mitchell, SD for many years. Later in life, he became a self-employed plumber, known for his honest work, skillful hands, and fair prices. He never overcharged and always gave his best. Albert was deeply involved in his community. He served as a volunteer firefighter for the Lennox Fire Department for 30 years and volunteered with the Lennox Ambulance for 28 years. He was a long-time member of First English Lutheran Church. A true South Dakotan at heart, Albert was a man who loved being outdoors – working in the yard, collecting recyclables and scrap metal, or simply taking drives in his pickup to check on building projects around town. He had a gift for fixing just about anything and was always ready with his trademark encouragement: “Give it the South Dakota try.” Animals and children all adored him and the feeling was mutual. He loved to teach his children and grandchildren how to fix and experience life. Albert was known for his quick wit and gentle humor. He loved to drink coffee and had a special way of keeping others on their toes with a playful grin and good-natured teasing. No matter the time of day, he greeted you with a good morning. Albert is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lorna; his children, Jane Iken of Lennox, Jason (Jackie) Iken of Houston, TX, and Jess (Cara) Iken of Lennox; grandchildren, Caden, Karson, and Karissa Iken of Lennox and Nick (Amanda), Garrett and Ben Aguilar of Houston, TX; great-grandchildren, Preston and Zara Aguilar of Houston, TX; sisters-in-law, Betty Tronson of Glenwood, IA and Tammy (Mike) Oltmanns of Lennox; as well as many nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, Clarence and Leona Tronson; and brother-in-law, Merrill Tronson. A special thank-you from Albert’s family goes to Ascera Care, especially Jamie and Kenzi; as well as everyone at the Canton Good Samaritan for the care they provided.

Albert R. Iken

December 3, 1942 - September 14, 2025

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