Gladys Irene Mensing, 82, of Owatonna, died Monday, December 25, 2017 at Owatonna Hospital. She was born January 17, 1935 in Claremont the daughter of Russell and Gertrude (Locke) Howard. Gladys was raised and attended school in Claremont. She married Lester Mensing on April 27, 1952 in Owatonna. The couple farmed together until moving to Owatonna in 1961. Gladys worked as a waitress at the Elk's Lodge, Country Kitchen and the Silver Saddle in Medford. She managed apartments in Owatonna and worked for the Mitchell family's greenhouse. Gladys was a member of the Eagle's Club. She enjoyed playing bingo and trips to the casino. She loved time with her family hunting, fishing and playing bingo with her kids and grandkids. She is survived by children, Richard Mensing of Owatonna, Marlene (and Mark) Robeck of Owatonna, Bruce Mensing of Owatonna, Larry Mensing of Medford, Bonnie (and JR) Westberg of Walker, Carol (and Gary) Yahnke of Owatonna, Mary Jo (and Eric) Miller of Medford; 14 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren; sisters, Karen (and Wesley) Grant, Trudy Howard; brother Harvey (and Carol) Howard and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; son, Roger; 5 brothers and 1 sister. Private family services will be held at a later date with interment at Riverside Cemetery in Dodge Center.