Harold Montanye, 85, Owatonna
Harold Nelson Montanye, age 85, passed away Dec. 30, 2024, at his home in Owatonna.
He was born March 25, 1939, on the family farm in Geneva, to Charley and Genevieve (Meech) Montanye.
On Oct. 28, 1962, Harold married the love of his life, Ardes Splitt, at the Ellendale Methodist Church. They raised two children, Galen and Peggy, on a small farm in rural Blooming Prairie, before moving to Owatonna.
Harold was a steward of the land and loved the farm life; this carried over into retirement with his vegetable and flower gardens. Harold worked for Carnes Jensen grinding feed on people’s farms and drove a can milk route for both Union and Hope Creameries, before working 23 years at the Hope Elevator. He was a dedicated employee and enjoyed visiting with people both on their farms and at the elevator.
Harold had a passion for gardening, fishing, playing cards, baking, and attending parades. He was proud of his bountiful gardens as he could grow just about anything. He loved to plant new varieties. He loved the thrill of catching Northern Pike and Walleyes and most importantly loved sharing those adventures with his friends and loved ones. Sundays you would find Harold in the kitchen doing what he loved best, baking with Ardes and testing out many new recipes.
Harold will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Ardes; son, Galen (Shirley) Montanye; grandson, Jordan Montanye (Bella Zirbes), and three great grandchildren: Mason, Masie, and Marlee; siblings: Ann Farr, Audrey Bremer, Charlotte Bremer, Gladys Luna, and Charles Montanye; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charley and Genevieve Montanye; daughter, Peggy Montanye; and sister, Lila Haskenson.
Friends may greet the family at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna, from 12–2 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. A short service will follow at 2 p.m. Interment will be at Geneva Cemetery at a later date. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.