Feminist, philosopher, and activist, Sara Ebenreck Leeland (Van Raalte) passed away March 5, 2024, at home in Albuquerque, NM, with her son Jered Ebenreck and daughterin- law Amy LaGrange at her side. Sara was born in May 1937 in Leland MI, the first daughter and second child of John K. and Luella M. (Nelson) Van Raalte. Growing up in Leland, next to the river, between Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau was pivotal for Sara. Environmental ethics, particularly related to water, became a focus in her life. In her later years, Sara chose “Leeland” as her last name to reflect that connection.
Sara attended Leland Public School and St. Mary’s School in Lake Leelanau, graduating from St. Mary’s in 1955 as Co-Valedictorian. She attended Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, graduating in 1959.
Sara joined the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids in 1957 where she was a highly regarded member of the community and a much-loved teacher. She taught at Marywood Academy and Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, and Saints Peter and Paul in Saginaw, Michigan. She earned her master’s degree in philosophy from Catholic University in Washington D.C.
