Jim Hougas, 64, Owatonna

Jim Hougas, lifelong resident of Owatonna, died Jan. 16, 2023, at Homestead Hospice House in Owatonna.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Owatonna. Friends may greet the family on Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, from 4–7 p.m. at Brick – Meger Funeral Home in Owatonna and one hour prior the funeral service at Trinity Lutheran Church on Tuesday. Burial to follow at St. John Cemetery in Owatonna. A reception for friends and family will be held at 2 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall.

Jim was born on Oct. 23, 1958 in Owatonna, the son of Vernon and Barbara (Dahl) Hougas. Jim graduated from Owatonna High School in the class of 1977. After high school, Jim went to work for Hy-Vee as a manager.

He married Colleen (Putsy) Gainey on July 27, 1985. To this union with his former spouse, two children were born: Ben and Bizzie.

Jim went on to work for Viracon for 20 years. He then returned to work for Hy-Vee as a manager until he retired due to health reasons. Jim was a huge lover of Minnesota sports, including the Twins and Vikings. He made the Twins home opener an annual event for more than 35 years. Jim enjoyed bicycling around town and being outdoors. He also loved volunteering at the Steele County Free Fair.

Jim leaves behind to continue his legacy children Benjamin (Katie) Hougas of Annandale; Elizabeth “Bizzie” Hougas of Stewartville; grandchildren Aubrey, Isaac, and Camden Hougas; siblings Catherine Lane-Whitfield, Mary (Gary) Borgstahl, Michael (Susan) Hougas, Alice (Eric) Weiberg, Cynthia (Dave) Sebold, Nancy Paulsen, Tamera McLean and Daniel (Susan) Hougas and many nieces and nephews.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents and sister Judy. For more information or to leave a condolence message go to www.megercares.com.