Cory Dotson, 65, Owatonna

Cory R. Dotson, age 65, passed away peacefully at his home on March 16, 2026, surrounded by family.

Vitiation will be 12-2 p.m. on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, Owatonna. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories at 2 p.m.

Cory was born in Minneapolis, to Gerald and Joanne (Cady) Dotson.

A 1978 high school graduate, he married Tamera Miller on Aug. 9, 1980, in Hanska. Together they raised four children—Nathan, Shannon, Rachel, and Tiffany—before later divorcing.

A hardworking provider, Cory spent over a decade as a truck driver and installer for Wenger Corporation. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to found the Owatonna Canoe Company in 1996. After crafting several canoes and boats, the business evolved into Dotson Cabinetry, which Cory operated until his son, Nate, took over in 2004. It was around this time that Cory found love again and married Mary DeRose in Owatonna.

To his family, Cory was the most creative person they ever knew. Whether he was on a motorcycle trip or camping in the great outdoors, he found inspiration everywhere. His mastery of woodworking lives on through the treasures he handcrafted for his grandchildren, including everything from rocking horses, planes, and motorcycles to dollhouses and play kitchens.

Cory is survived by his wife, Mary; his children, Nate (Joan) Dotson, Shannon (Aaron) Carlson, Rachel Dotson (Gregg Finch), and Tiffany (Eric) Hansen; and his former wife and lifelong friend, Tamera Dotson.

He was a proud grandfather to Malichi, Kinzie, Finley, and Scout Carlson; Thor and Axel Dotson; Paisley, Jett, and Aurora Hansen; and his grand-dog, Maizie (Rachel and late Steve Pawliszko).

He is also survived by his stepchildren, Jennifer and David DeRose, and his siblings, Randy, Mary Jo, Carla, and Beth.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepfather, Lyle; and his siblings, Kevin, Jim, and Kathy.

In lieu of flowers, Cory requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

For more information or to leave an online condolence message go to www.megercares.com.