Obituaries

Mary Ann Wanous, 61, Owatonna

Publisher — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 16:47:21 +0000

Mary Ann Wanous, 61, Owatonna Publisher Wed, 10/21/2026 - 18:47

Mary Ann Wanous, 61, of Owatonna, died on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Benedictine Living Community surrounded by her family.

She was born Feb. 5, 1965, in Owatonna, the daughter of Luverne and Marilyn (Wagner) Wanous. She graduated from Owatonna High School in 1983 and started working at Cedar Valley Services where she proudly worked for 43 years doing various janitorial jobs.

Mary Ann was a sweetheart and a social butterfly who always loved to visit, make new friends and give hugs. Mary Ann loved her coffee, donuts and going to the eagles on Friday nights with her roommates to eat popcorn and socialize.

In her free time, she loved to color, make crafts, or watch her favorite shows which included Friends, Golden Girls, Little House on the Prairie and Mash. She was a Vikings super fan who would always dress in purple for game days. She also enjoyed dancing to her father’s polka music, bowling, getting treats, and being around babies. Above everything, she loved and adored her family. She would look forward to family events and the "sisters weekend " that she would take with her sisters the last five years. She traveled from Maine to Hawaii and swam with the dolphins. Mary Ann could make anyone smile and would leave a lasting impact on everyone around her. Mary Ann’s group home staff and roommates supported her and made it her 2nd home since October 1993.

She is survived by her sisters, Debbie (Ray) Hanks of Waseca, Jane (Joe) Spatenka of Owatonna, and Nancy (Bryan) Vroman of Owatonna; nieces and nephews, Steven (Jessica) Hanks, Andrew (Chelsea) Hanks, Kyle (LeAnn) Hanks, Trent (Emily) Spatenka, Vanessa (Justin) Johnson, and Tyler Vroman; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Luverne and Marilyn; grandparents, Harold and Mildred Wanous and Fred and Vernice Wagner; aunt, Norma Ackerman; cousins, Bev Hertel and Roxanne Copp.

Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Michaelson Funeral Home with a visitation one hour prior. Interment will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

A special thank you to the Cedar Valley Services staff for the wonderful love, support, opportunities, and friendships you have given Mary Ann. You helped make her the special person that she is and have a wonderful life! As Mary Ann would say she got a AA plus!!

Thank you to Emily L. at Ecumen Hospice for her special support during this difficult time.

Memorials are preferred to Cedar Valley Services in Owatonna: 415 N. Grove Ave., Owatonna, MN 55060.

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Robert Grebe, 76, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 12:41:27 +0000

Robert Grebe, 76, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 10/19/2026 - 14:41

Robert Jules Grebe passed away unexpectedly on Oct. 6, 2026, at the age of 76.

He was born on Nov. 28, 1949, in Fond du Lac, Wis. Bob grew up in Fond du Lac and loved fishing and hanging out with his childhood friends, whom he kept in touch with into his adulthood through letters, phone calls, visits and attending Brewers’ games.

Bob met the love of his life, Kathleen Flood (Kathy) while working their summer job in 1970 and he found a loving family in the Floods. Bob and Kathy married on Aug. 12, 1972.

Bob and Kathy moved to Owatonna, in 1979, making their home a place where all were always welcome. For Bob, family was incredibly important. He and Kathy had five children and built lifelong friendships and a strong community with neighbors on Vine Street. Bob loved to play wiffle ball with his kids and any neighborhood kids that wanted to join, shoot hoops in the driveway, or take his kids fishing when he got a chance. Nothing lit up Bob’s face more than joking around with his kids and their families. He had a soft spot in his heart for little kids, and we will cherish how easily he could make them laugh.

Bob and Kathy complemented each other as they raised their kids, instilling the importance of partnership, family and community. Being active in door knocking and raising their children to participate in democracy were core values that Bob and Kathy shared. Their door was open to anyone, as it was never an issue to pull up an extra chair at the table. Living their values and sharing what they had was what community and faith meant to Bob and Kathy.

Bob was a lifelong Packers, Brewers, Bucks, and Badgers fan and loved watching sporting events his whole life, especially when it was one of his children or grandchildren. Anyone that worked with or met Bob knew that he was very proud to be from Wisconsin, evident by his Green Bay stocking cap or how he would display the Packers’ score in his office window after every game, and especially after a win against the Vikings.

Bob spent his career as a vocational counselor at Cedar Valley Services, known for his patience and care in making every individual know they were important, no matter what they needed. It was not uncommon to see a line of people outside his door waiting to get a moment to share what was going on in their lives or even to discuss the next big game.

Bob loved to joke around and always had a pun or bad joke to lighten any conversation. Bob and his sister Beth grew up exchanging puns with their dad as kids, he never let the opportunity pass for a good pun, no matter the audience. His blue eyes would twinkle, anticipating the eventual groan or chuckle.

Bob was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Jaycees, Knights of Columbus and the Izaak Walton League over the years. For more than 40 years, Bob and family spent every Memorial Day weekend at Camp Friendship with a group from Owatonna. This volunteer weekend was one of Bob’s favorite annual events, as he cherished the time with the group of family friends who were some of his closest over the years.

In his later years, Bob could be found walking his dog, Tino, who kept him active. Bob loved to visit his kids and took pride in his grandchildren’s accomplishments. Whether sharing a laugh, following a game, or simply spending time together, Bob found his greatest happiness in the people he loved. His final gift to others was to be an organ and tissue donor.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert E. and Kay Grebe; his parents-in-law, Vernon and Gladys Flood; and his brothers-in-law, Allen and John Flood.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy; his five children: Laura (Jerry) Shadewald of Prairie du Sac, Wis.; Carolyn (Orlando) Martinez of Richfield; Suzanne (Ben) Sopko of Richfield; Nick (Bridget) of Minneapolis; and Ben of Blooming Prairie. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Aida, Greta, Lila, and Levi Shadewald; Dayana, Dainuivis, Orlando and Adair Martinez; Frances and Laverne Grebe; his great-grandchildren; Alaia, Matias and Alana, as well as his twin sister, Beth Grebe and the Flood family. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

Bob’s life was a testament to the power of showing up for others and finding joy in the everyday moments that make a family and a community. His legacy lives on in the family he and Kathy built, the friendships he faithfully maintained, the people he served, and the countless smiles sparked by a perfectly or terribly timed pun.

Visitation will be held Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, from 4-7 p.m. at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna, with a Knights of Columbus Rosary beginning at 7 p.m. Friends may also greet the family on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 512 S. Elm Ave., Owatonna, prior to the start of the Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be at a later date in Fond du Lac.

Memorials may be given to Smile Train or Heifer International.

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Dennis Dunkirk, 88, Lake Havasu City, Ariz.

Publisher — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 12:39:14 +0000

Dennis Dunkirk, 88, Lake Havasu City, Ariz. Publisher Mon, 10/19/2026 - 14:39

Dennis Kent Dunkirk passed away, on Oct. 7, 2026, in his home with his wife, Maridee by his side. Dennis will be remembered for the sparkle in his blue eyes, beautiful smile, wonderful sense of humor, great strength and a wisdom that came from a life well lived. He had a way of making friends wherever he went, and he leaves behind a lifetime of stories, friendships, laughter, and memories. Dennis was born on Dec. 25, 1937, in Minneapolis, to Lawrence and Linnea Dunkirk. After high school, he entered the U.S. Army and served in Korea. He then opened Dunkirk Signs in Minneapolis. He later moved to Owatonna, where he became a real estate broker and manager of Town & Country Real Estate. In 1985, he opened Concept Four Corporation. He was a member of the Masons, a Shriner, Sertoma, the Elks, and the Car Nuts Auto Club. He served as sign superintendent for the Steele County Free Fair. He was a board member of the Little Theatre of Owatonna performing in and creating sets for many plays. Dennis enjoyed golfing with friends and the many golfing trips they took together. After Concept Four Corporation was sold, Dennis and Maridee moved to Lake Havasu City, Ariz., in 2003. He built his beloved 1948 Austin A40 hot rod and became a member of the Over the Hill Gang Car Club. He was Exalted Ruler of Elks Lodge #2399 and a 50-year Elk Member. Dennis is survived by wife Maridee; son Cory (Sharon) Dunkirk; stepsons Adam (Janelle) Sorensen, Nathan (Sarah) Sorensen; stepdaughters Michelle Kent, Mandee Sorensen; grandchildren Briana (Crystal), Dylan, Magnolia, Audrey, Zoey, Luca, Annabel, Gabriel, Jayden, Noelle, Sanaiya; great-grandchildren Sistine, Sedona; sister Tracy Rusyniak and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by parents Lawrence and Linnea Dunkirk; sons Troy Dunkirk, Jonathan Dunkirk; siblings Pauline Dunkirk, Larry Dunkirk, Lance Dunkirk and grandson, Christian Gary. A service will be held at the Lake Havasu City Elks Lodge on Oct. 31 at 11 a.m. and the Elks Lodge in Owatonna, on Nov. 14 at 11 a.m. All are welcome. A light luncheon will follow each service.

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Patrick Ginter, 68, Pasadena, Calif.

Publisher — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 15:11:00 +0000

Patrick Ginter, 68, Pasadena, Calif. Publisher Thu, 10/15/2026 - 17:11

Patrick Edward Ginter, 68, of Pasadena, Calif., formerly of Owatonna, passed away, Friday, Oct. 9, 2026.

A memorial service will be held in Owatonna at a future date.

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Beverly Barron, 78, Coon Rapids

Publisher — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 15:09:53 +0000

Beverly Barron, 78, Coon Rapids Publisher Thu, 10/15/2026 - 17:09

Beverly Ann Barron passed away on Sept. 26, 2026, at the age of 78.

She was born on July 25, 1948, in Waseca, beloved daughter of James and Agnes (Hoffman) David. Beverly was raised in Ellendale, MN and graduated from Ellendale High School in 1966.

Shortly after, she met and married Henry Barron on Aug. 4, 1967. Beverly and Henry resided in South Minneapolis and were blessed with two children.

Throughout her career, Beverly worked full-time for over 36 years as a nursing assistant at Lakehouse Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center (formerly Walker Methodist Health Center). Beverly also worked part-time at seven elementary schools as an educational assistant (EA) for the Minneapolis Public Schools for 40 years and retired from Hale Elementary School in 2016.

Bev had a true servant's heart and loved to cook and bake for her family and friends. She was an avid reader, and loved to read the newspaper and magazines, especially People Magazine. She always loved watching the “News,” “Wheel of Fortune,” “Dancing with the Stars,” and a great action film.

Bev enjoyed collecting coins and two-dollar bills. Bev’s competitive side would always come out in a good game of Phase 10. Bev lived her life for her family and always put others' needs above her own. Her strength came from her faith in God and the love for her family is what kept her strong until the very end.

Beverly is survived by her husband of 59 years, Henry Barron Sr.; children, Mary (Donald) Osborne; grandchildren, Dillon Barron (Brielle Klappenbach), Rick Osborne, Alyssa Osborne; siblings, Richard (Susie) David, Linda (Gary) O'Connor, Rebecca Lassahn, and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Beverly was preceded in death by her son, Henry Barron Jr.; parents, James G. David and Agnes David (Hoffman); siblings, Harry David, Tom David, and James R. David; sister-in-law, Carolyn David; brother-in-law, Richard Lassahn.

A visitation, service and lunch to celebrate Beverly's life took place on Oct. 10, 2026, at Gearhart Funeral Home, Coon Rapids.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family.

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Walt Gaul, 87, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 18:59:54 +0000

Walt Gaul, 87, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 10/12/2026 - 20:59

Walter “Walt” Gaul Jr., 87, of Owatonna, died Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026.

Walt was born May 15, 1939, to Walter Freeman Gaul Sr. and Grace (Panzer) Gaul, on a farm near Ellendale, in Steele County. He had four sisters and two brothers.

As a young teen, he spent many days loading bales for four dollars a day. His brother Robert drove the tractor while Walt loaded the bales. The farmer they worked for had the only bailer around, so they bailed hay for every farmer in the area.

When Walt was about 16, he got a job farming for Cashman Nursery planting corn with one of the new six row planters. He continued to work for Cashman Nursery until he started working for Colins Produce in Medford.

He married Marlene Grubish in 1958. They had four children, Nancy, Scott, Russell and Joyce. They purchased a schoolhouse by Rice Lake, of which he remodeled into a home to raise their family. Walt and Marlene later divorced. He always maintained the utmost respect and admiration for his in-laws.

In 1959, Walt started a job as a mason tender for a local contractor, which was the start of his career. He worked there for 11 years before starting his own construction business in 1970. From that time until the early 1990s he built 200 plus homes in Owatonna.

In 1972, he purchased land east of Owatonna, on Rose Street, and in 1975 built a new, five-bedroom home. With the help of his family, he farmed, raised livestock and at the same time worked in construction.

In the early 1990s, he retired from construction and worked part-time jobs including being a garbage truck driver. Which seemingly sparked his love for “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure” philosophy.

In 1996, he took over an auctioneering business in Geneva. Years later he moved the Walt Gaul Consignment Auction to the homestead he purchased, southeast of Owatonna. He remodeled a large building to accommodate his sales. Other than sales, it was a great place for socializing. Many friendships were made at the Walt Gaul Auction Barn. That’s where he met his fiancée, Oleeta, in 2013. They got engaged in 2017.

Walt is survived by his fiancée or as he said it “his better half,” Oleeta Rime; children, Nancy (and Tim) Sletten, Scott, Russell (and Mary), and Joyce Krell (and Phil Medes); 11 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Donna Gaul; longtime friend, Bob Chambers; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter-in-law, Sandy Gaul; infant sister, Isabelle; and siblings, Dolly (and Art) Johnson, Esther (and LaVerne) Vesely, Jean (and Ruben) Brocker, Ed, and Robert.

He will be greatly missed by his family, many friends, and his small special four-legged companion “Jingles.”

A visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, from 4-7 p.m. at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna with visitation one hour prior. Interment will be held at Lemond Danish Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Lemond Danish Cemetery or Allina Hospice.

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Keith Davis, 67, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 18:58:36 +0000

Keith Davis, 67, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 10/12/2026 - 20:58

Keith Loren Davis, age 67, passed away on Oct. 8, 2026, from an apparent heart attack, following a lifelong struggle with mental health challenges.

Born on April 8, 1959, to Ernest and Delores Davis, Keith began life as an energetic, happy, and fun-loving boy. He enjoyed spending time with his brothers, riding his tandem bicycle, working on art projects, and embracing an adventurous lifestyle. His early years were filled with creativity, activity, and time spent with family.

As Keith grew through his high school years and into early adulthood, his artistic abilities flourished. He became a very accomplished artist, creating many beautiful and remarkable works of art. His creativity was a special gift, and his artwork reflected the talent and imagination he developed throughout his life.

During his late teens and early adulthood, Keith began experiencing symptoms of mental illness and was eventually diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. This condition, along with other health challenges, became a significant part of his life. Despite these ongoing struggles, Keith remained deeply loved by his family. His family is especially grateful to the many individuals who helped care for and support him throughout the years.

Keith's life was more than the challenges he faced. He was a son, brother, and beloved member of a family who cared deeply for him. His memory will live on through the people who knew and loved him, the memories they shared, and the artwork he created.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Delores Davis, and his grandparents: Loyd and Enid Davis, Marshal and Mildred Wink, and Percy and Carrie Jose.

He is survived by his siblings: Darla Sims (John Sims), Wayne Davis, Rod Davis (Pam Davis), Paul Davis (Carol Davis), and Brian Davis; as well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Keith will be remembered by his family for the life he lived, the artistic gifts he shared, and the memories that will remain with those who loved him. Though his life included many difficult struggles, he was never without the love of his family. His family will forever cherish the time they shared with him and the memories he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed.

A gathering of family and friends will be from 10–11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna. A funeral service honoring Keith's life will begin at 11 a.m. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery in Madelia.

Family and friends are invited to gather to remember Keith, share memories, and honor his life. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.

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Joan Johnson, 85, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 18:57:24 +0000

Joan Johnson, 85, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 10/12/2026 - 20:57

Joan Marie Johnson, of Owatonna, died Oct. 10, 2026, at her home with her family by her side.

Mass of Christian Burial is set of Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 512 S. Elm Ave., Owatonna. Friends may greet the family on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, from 4-7 p.m. at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603, Austin Road, Owatonna, with a Parish Rosary starting at 3:45 p.m. The visitation continues one hour prior to the funeral Mass on Saturday at St. Joseph Church.

Joan was born Aug. 24, 1941, in Faribault, to Orville and Lorraine (O’ Connor) Quiggle. She was raised in Morristown, and she graduated from Morristown High School in 1960. She attended cosmetology school in Mankato.

On July 8, 1961, Joan was united in marriage to Rodney Frank Johnson at Immaculate Conception Church in Faribault. After living briefly in Lemond, the couple settled on a farm near Owatonna, where they raised five children. Joan operated an in-home beauty salon before devoting herself to life as a homemaker and farm wife.

Joan had a gentle spirit and a quiet, sweet nature that endeared her to everyone who knew her. But those fortunate enough to know her well also knew the wonderfully spirited woman beneath that quiet exterior. She had a delightful sense of humor, a mischievous streak, and a gift for bringing laughter and fun to any gathering.

A wonderful cook and gracious hostess, Joan loved bringing her family together for meals, celebrations, and laughter. She and Rodney enjoyed farming, going to their cabin and camping with their family. A devoted Catholic, Joan loved Jesus with all her heart and treasured her family above all else.

Joan is survived by her husband, Rodney; five children: Tim (Margaret) Johnson, Char (Daryl) Kubicek, Troy (Lisa) Johnson, Cindy (Steve) Rohwer, Carmen (Mark) Van Osdale; 16 grandchildren: Michael Johnson, Jami (Josh) Johnson, Travis (Krystle) Johnson, Cory (Alicia) Johnson, Trevor (Emma) Johnson, Jason (Vannesa) Kubicek, Kristi Johnson, Justin Kubicek, Tyler (Michelle) Johnson, Jake (Marin) Johnson, Sara Johnson, Brittni (Ryan) Ferch, Nicole (Brandon) Rohwer, Ashley (Ben) Resler, Lacey (Alex) Spinler, Logan (Emily) Hanson, Andrew (Karissa) Van Osdale, Sean (Amy) Van Osdale, Sam (Jake) Rahier-Van Osdale; 25 great-grandchildren: Issac, Jeremiah, Noah, Xavier, Alli (Blake), Elle, Jax, Carson, Bay, Gunner, Odis, Remy, Amelia, Norah, Kennedy, Talon, Greyson, Cooper, Emma, Sydney, Landon, Clayton, Lincoln, McLain, Bowen, Andi Joan, Lucas, June, Lila, Piper, and Tucker; sisters-in-law: Pat Johnson and Shirley Quiggle, and nieces and nephews: Marlon Quiggle, Jr., Gary (Kathy) Johnson, and Craig Johnson.

She was preceded in death by her parents Orville and Lorraine Quiggle; brother Marlon Quiggle; daughter-in-law Karen Johnson; great-grandchild Georgina Johnson; siblings-in-law Jesse Johnson, and Richard (Barbara) Johnson and their children Julie, Loren, and Corrine.

Joan's legacy of faith, love, and laughter will live on through the generations of family she so lovingly brought together.

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

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Richard Koss, 85, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 18:54:43 +0000

Richard Koss, 85, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 10/12/2026 - 20:54

Richard "Dick" Koss, age 85, passed away peacefully at his home on Oct. 9, 2026.

Dick was born on Nov. 6, 1940, to Frank and Blanche Koss. He grew up on a farm in Steele County, attended country school, and graduated from Owatonna High School in 1959.

On Sept. 21, 1963, he married the love of his life, Janice (Hrdlichka).

Dick was a hardworking man who was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Throughout his working years, he was employed at OTC, HyLine, Lincoln Suppliers, and the Owatonna Bus Company.

Dick’s greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren. He could be found cheering them on and supporting them at nearly every sporting event, recital, or choir concert. Summers spent up north with his family were among his favorite times, filled with fishing, playing cards, and, of course, making everyone laugh. Dick and Janice also loved taking road trips and spending quality time with friends and family. If you ever had a question about how to get somewhere, Dick was your go-to person. He knew the roads and routes and could tell you exactly how to get there.

An avid sports fan, Dick especially enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Lynx, and Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Dick is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Janice; his son, Rick (DeAnn) Koss; his daughter, Karla (Nate) Andersen; and his beloved grandchildren, Cody Koss; Lexy and Taylor Andersen. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, several of whom fondly describe him as “one of my favorites,” a testament to the special place he held in so many hearts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Blanche; grandparents; his aunts and uncles; and nephew, Randy.

Dick will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, love of family, and the laughter he brought to those around him. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 512 S. Elm Ave., Owatonna. Friends may greet the family from 9 a.m. until the start of Mass at the church. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Owatonna. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.

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Rebecca Johnson, 84, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 14:06:32 +0000

Rebecca Johnson, 84, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 10/12/2026 - 16:06

Rebecca Lou (Boyd) Johnson, of Owatonna, passed away peacefully on Oct. 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna, with visitation beginning one hour prior.

Rebecca was born on Dec. 10, 1941, in Albert Lea, to Henry and Anna (Kroke) Boyd. She graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1960.

On Jan. 15, 1966, she married Lowell Johnson, and together they established their home in Owatonna, where they raised their two children, Michael and Jennifer.

Rebecca was a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Owatonna, where she was actively involved in Circle, the Altar Guild, and many other aspects of the church. Her faith and service were an important part of her life, and she cherished the fellowship and friendships she found within her church family.

Rebecca enjoyed a fulfilling career as a hairdresser. She began her career in Albert Lea at Michaels and then transferred to the Owatonna location. She was employed at the Blue Fountain as well in Owatonna before opening a shop in her home. She then continued her career at Gillespie Beauty Salon in Owatonna. She also spent time each week at Cedarview Nursing Home doing hair. Her talent, warmth, and genuine care for others made her more than a hairstylist to many—she was a trusted friend and familiar presence in the lives of those she served.

After retiring from hairdressing, Rebecca spent many years volunteering at the Salvation Army in Owatonna. She also enjoyed her time spent with the Sons of Norway chapter in Owatonna.

Family was at the heart of Rebecca’s life. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Michael (Stephanie) Johnson and Jennifer (Dave) Thomas; her grandchildren, Anna (fiancé Jake) Thomas, Madelyn (fiancé Brandon) Thomas, Chloe (Spencer) Johnson, Laura Johnson, Lelia (Seth) Erickson, and Amara Johnson; great grandson, Weston Johnson and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lowell, parents, Henry and Anna Boyd; sisters Avis and Marlys; and brothers Orlyn and Harold.

Rebecca leaves behind a legacy of love, family, friendship, and the many lives she touched throughout her years. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

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

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