Renee Lebens

Renee Ann Lebens, 74, of Albert Lea, MN passed away Thursday August 28th, 2025 at St. John's Nursing Home.

Renee was born November 26th, 1950 in Mason City, IA to Howard "Bud" Winkler, Sr. and Alice (Colby) Winkler. She grew up in Kensett, IA before moving to Albert Lea, MN as a teenager. Renee graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1971. She attended Albert Lea Technical College for their Clerical Program. She later attended Faribault Technical College to study Bookkeeping.

Renee was briefly married to Paul Lebens, Jr.. Renee's only child, Michelle, was born to this union in 1975. Renee moved to Faribault in 1979. After raising Michelle in Faribault, Renee moved to Waterville, MN and Mankato, MN before settling back in Albert Lea.

Renee enjoyed black-and-white movies and any movie with John Wayne. She loved animals and clean jokes. She was a wonderful grandma. In her last few years, Renee liked to listen to sermons by David Jeremiah. Her faith was important to her and gave her peace when the end was near.

Left behind to cherish her memory are her daughter Michelle (Greg) Boettcher, grandchild Rice Boettcher, brother Howard (Pat) Winkler Jr. and brother Ralph (Theresa) Winkler. Renee was preceded in death by her parents.

As per Renee's wishes, no visitation or service will be held and interment will be private.