Obituaries

Lorraine Reynolds, 95, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 21:26:03 +0000

Lorraine Reynolds, 95, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 11/02/2026 - 22:26

Lorraine Dorothy (Sommer) Reynolds was born on Jan. 29, 1931, in Owatonna, to Gordon Sommer and Martha Sommer. She grew up on a farm near Owatonna and attended a country school through the eighth grade before graduating from Owatonna High School in 1949.

After graduation, Lorraine attended beauty school in Mankato and became a licensed beautician. She later worked at the Gillespie Beauty Shop in Owatonna, where she developed skills, she would continue to share with family and friends throughout her life.

In 1953, Lorraine met the love of her life, Delmer Robert "Bob" Reynolds, at the Monterey Ballroom in Owatonna. After only two dates, Bob was drafted to serve in the Korean War. During the three years he was away, Lorraine and Bob faithfully wrote letters to one another. Just one week after his return home, they became engaged and were married on Sept. 23, 1956. Together they built a loving family and shared seventy years of marriage, celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary on Sept. 23, 2026.

In 1967, Lorraine and Bob purchased and operated King Tut's Pizza Palace in Owatonna. Alongside their children, they proudly ran the family business for 18 years, creating lasting memories and strong ties within the community.

Family was always the center of Lorraine's life. While raising their children in Owatonna, Lorraine and Bob purchased property on Devil's Lake near Brandon, Minn., in 1975. Over the next five decades, the property became the setting for countless family gatherings, camping trips, fishing excursions, and treasured memories. In 1993, they built their retirement home there, a place Lorraine deeply loved.

The lake offered Lorraine the opportunity to spend time in nature, something that brought her great joy. She loved watching birds, tending her flowers and garden, and appreciating the beauty of the outdoors. Lorraine also shared her beautician talents with her husband, children, and mother for many years. She was a gifted seamstress, crocheter, quilter, baker, and homemaker

Lorraine enjoyed traveling, attending local concerts, solving puzzles and word searches, fishing, and playing cards. She had a passion for preserving memories through photography and carefully maintained numerous photo albums documenting family milestones and special occasions. She was also known for her baking and hospitality, delighting family and friends with birthday cakes, pies, cookies, donuts, homemade bread, and large holiday meals that brought everyone together around her table. Lorraine was an active member of Grace Lutheran Church, where her faith remained an important part of her life.

Lorraine, age 95, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, at Vista Prairie at Windmill Ponds in Alexandria.

She is survived by her sons, Steven (Chris) Reynolds of Owatonna; Larry Reynolds of Claremont; and her daughters, Patricia (Al) Jeter of Fuquay-Varina, N.C.; Debra (Jim) Breister of Oakdale; and Sandra (Ann) Reynolds of Mason City; nine grandchildren, Melissa (Shawn) Jacobsen and Joshua Reynolds both of Faribault; Trista (Adam) Babcock of Medford; Savanah (Taylor) Warren of Charlotte, N.C.; Samantha Reynolds and Zachary Reynolds both of Fargo; Jeremy Breister and Justin Breister both of Oakdale; Karen Jeter of Fuquay-Varina, N.C.; five great-grandchildren, and cousin, Delbert Sommer.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon W. Sommer and Martha Sommer; her beloved husband, Bob Reynolds; her sister, Betty Caswell, and brother-in-law, Sam Caswell; her brother, Gordon L. Sommer Jr.; her daughter-in-law, Angie Reynolds; and several dear friends.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, 2026, at St. John Lutheran Church in Owatonna, with visitation one hour prior to the service and a reception to follow. Inurnment for Lorraine and Bob will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Hospice Foundation (St. Cloud branch) or Grace Lutheran Church-Mission Endowment Fund. Arrangements by Anderson Funeral Home and Crematory. www.andersonfuneral.net.

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John Wanous, 78, Brownsdale

Publisher — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 20:41:15 +0000

John Wanous, 78, Brownsdale Publisher Mon, 11/02/2026 - 21:41

John Richard Wanous, age 78, passed away on Oct. 30, 2026, at Legacy of Brownsdale after a brief battle with cancer.

John was born on April 26, 1948, in Hayfield, to Richard and Helen (Jukes) Wanous and liked to recount how Ma kept him warm in a shoebox on the stove. He attended school at District 56 and graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1966, where he participated in track and wrestling and was known as Paul Revere Jr., for all his midnight car rides.

On July 29, 1967, John married Marilyn (Sawyer) at St. Aidan’s in Ellendale. Marilyn always liked to say he lured her in with his handsome looks, but just as importantly, his fast car. He claims to still hold drag racing records made with his beloved blue Chevelle. And we believe him, because more often than not, he was right.

Together, John and Marilyn made a welcoming home in their beloved Brownsdale. Through the years their home was filled with family, friends and neighbors. Whether kicking off a group snowmobile tour, barbecuing for a crowd, hosting NASCAR watch parties or holding after bar hours, they always made room for more.

John and Marilyn raised five daughters; including their later in life oopsie, Katie, who John cared for in the off-season while Marilyn was working. He was very proud of his girls and loved showing them off whenever he got the chance. And you couldn't take the smile off his face when he was "cutting a rug" with them at their weddings.

Farming was an important part of John’s life from a very young age. He began driving a tractor at just eight years old and planted oats by age 12. He spent his working years farming with his brother, a profession and partnership that brought him great pride and enjoyment, until retiring in 2018. He spent many a day post-retirement out cruising and checking crops. Once a farmer, always a farmer.

Outside of farming, John enjoyed NASCAR and collecting die-cast cars. He appreciated leisurely drives through the countryside, listening to music (all genres, but Johnny Cash and Bruce Springsteen topped his list), grilling out, camping and enjoying a cold Busch Light at all the local bars, where he never met a stranger. These past few years his girls would encourage him to drink a cold one at Legacy, but he much preferred to go on a “tour” where he could socialize with his many friends, young and old,

John is survived by five daughters, Lisa Hegland of Osage, Iowa, Julie (Brad) Tapp of Dexter, Amy (Tracy) Tapp of Rochester, Jodi (Jeff) Carney of Hayfield, and Katie (Andrew) Brumm of Osage, Iowa; 12 grandchildren; two great grandchildren; brothers, Dick Wanous of Blooming Prairie, Tom (Julie) Wanous, and David (Brenda) Wanous of Blooming Prairie; along with other relatives and his many friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn, his parents, Richard and Helen Wanous, and his brother, Billy.

A memorial gathering will be held from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, at the Blooming Prairie Funeral Home. The family welcomes everyone to join them in raising one last Busch Light to John at the Mapleview Bar immediately following the memorial service. John and Marilyn will be buried at a later time to St. Columbanus Catholic Cemetery in Blooming Prairie.

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Patrick Ginter, 68, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 20:39:48 +0000

Patrick Ginter, 68, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 11/02/2026 - 21:39

Patrick "Packy" Edward Ginter, of Owatonna, passed away peacefully at a hospital in Pasadena, Calif., following a brave battle with a brain tumor. He leaves behind a colorful, lasting creative legacy and a life beautifully lived in service of his craft.

Born on April 1, 1958, to Patricia Ginter and Robert Knauer (deceased), Patrick grew up with a vibrant curiosity and a profound empathy for the world around him.

He graduated from Owatonna High School in 1976 before pursuing his lifelong passion for the arts. He attended Mankato State University and later finished his bachelor’s degree of fine arts from Pasadena City College, building a solid foundation for a lifetime of creative expression.

Patrick defined his artwork as modern expressionism, professionally developing a distinct style marked by bold, bright brushstrokes and rich impasto textures. He was a master of capturing both the quiet beauty of scenic landscapes and the deep stories written on human faces through his beautiful portraits. During his prominent years in Minneapolis, Metro Magazine recognized his unique talent, featuring him in numerous articles. He achieved notable milestones in the local art community, hosting a memorable one-man show at St. Anthony Main, displaying his work at the Jean Stefan Gallery, and earning the distinction of having his artwork accepted into the Minnesota State Fair.

A true street artist at heart, Patrick lived out his love of art on a grand canvas, traveling across the United States and connecting deeply with countless musicians and fellow artists. His van was a legendary and well-recognized staple of his journey, proudly bearing the phrase on the side: "If only Van Gogh had a van." From that mobile studio, he painted plein air from coast to coast.

For Patrick, art was never just a pastime—he fiercely stressed that art was healing. He lived out this philosophy by using his immense talent to support the down and out. He used his paintings to fight breast cancer alongside the Jane Brattain Breast Cancer Center and raised vital funds for veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder through Guitars for Vets. A massive lover of music who was rarely far from his guitar, he frequently painted iconic rock ’n’ roll figures.

He lived his life exactly as he wished: fully immersed in his craft, sharing his art directly with people on the streets as well as prestigious art galleries, and reminding everyone he met to find the healing beauty in the everyday world.

Patrick is survived by his mother, Patricia Francis; his beloved cousins; and he will be deeply missed by his family, his lifelong friends, his colleagues, and the vast community of creatives he inspired across the nation.

A celebration of life featuring a special exhibition of Patrick's vibrant artwork will be held on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Owatonna Art Center, 435 Garden View Lane, Owatonna.

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Steven Garness, 78, Rose Creek

Publisher — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 20:38:58 +0000

Steven Garness, 78, Rose Creek Publisher Mon, 11/02/2026 - 21:38

Steven Burnell Garness, age 78, of Rose Creek, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, at his home.

He was born Jan. 7, 1948, in Blooming Prairie, to Edwin and Ruth (Nash) Garness. He graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1966, was drafted, and valiantly served in Vietnam from 1968-1970. He earned a Purple Heart, Bronze Star with Valor, and many others.

He returned to Blooming Prairie and married Valerie Lynne Hanson, the girl that stole his heart in the second grade. Together they raised three children: Aaron, Brandee, and Casey. He graduated from meat cutting school in Pipestone, Minn., and eventually opened his own meat locker in Rock Dell, Minn. He then proceeded to open “It’s a Meat Store” in Blooming Prairie, where he was able to work right next door to Valerie. He also worked for many years as a mail carrier.

After retirement, he and Valerie moved to Spearfish, S.D., to be closer to their grandchildren. He enjoyed playing cards, collecting conversation pieces, and spending time with friends and family. He enjoyed making people laugh and was well known for playing pranks on his friends and family. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Terry Garness; sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Jim Rysavy; and his wife, Valerie.

He is survived by his children, Aaron (Christine) Garness, Brandee Garness, and Casey (Sondra) Garness; his grandchildren, Cody, Annora, Jacob, and Kaitlyn Garness, Brayden Bishop, Kirby and Carsyn Garness; and great-grandson, Crew.

The family is planning a celebration of life in early June in Blooming Prairie. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.

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Frances Meyer, 92, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 20:37:36 +0000

Frances Meyer, 92, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 11/02/2026 - 21:37

Frances F. Meyer passed away on October 30, 2026, in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Owatonna. Friends may greet the family one hour prior to the funeral, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the church.

Frances was born on Nov. 3, 1933, in Somerset Township to Rudolph and Magdalene (Kovar) Halla.

On April 22, 1953, Frances married Irving Meyer at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She was a homemaker, raising her family. After her children were grown, Frances returned to work at Owatonna Tool Company (OTC), where she worked for 25 years before retiring in 1998.

Frances was a member of the VFW Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary, Catholic Council of Women, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, and the Senior Center. She enjoyed playing cards, crocheting, and sewing.

Frances is survived by her children, Kenneth Meyer of Owatonna, Gail (Dan) Busho of Owatonna, Betty (Roger) Ballstadt of Goodhue, Minnesota, Shirley (Lyle) Seath of Geneva, Minnesota, Mark Meyer of Owatonna, and Karen (Tim) Nissen of Prior Lake; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Walter Halla of Owatonna.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Irving; daughter-in-law, Shelly, three brothers, Richard, Rudolph, and Henry; and three sisters, Anna, Lucille, and Magdalen.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Owatonna.

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Charles "Chuck" Nelson, 68, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 02 Nov 2026 20:36:13 +0000

Charles "Chuck" Nelson, 68, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 11/02/2026 - 21:36

Charles “Chuck” Edward Nelson, 68, of Owatonna, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, after a short yet courageous battle with cancer. Chuck was born on May 19, 1958, in Little Falls, to parents Richard and JoAnn Nelson, the fourth of six children. He graduated from Owatonna High School in 1976. He earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in agribusiness from the University of Minnesota, Waseca, in 1980.

Chuck built a successful career as a salesperson for 40+ years at Nelson Equipment, John Deere, and Walser. Chuck’s charismatic nature, quick wit, and knowledge helped him build genuine, lasting connections with clients and colleagues, and he became a familiar face wherever he went. While he took pride in his career, his true joy belonged to his family and friends.

In the spring of 1985, Chuck met the love of his life, Kimberly. They were united in marriage on Aug. 16, 1986, at Associated Church in Owatonna, and Chuck did not waste any time; their son Nathan was born nine months later, in May 1987. They were blessed with 40 beautiful years together, or as Chuck would say, we have been annoying each other for 40 beautiful years, ha-ha!” Chuck’s sense of humor was second to none. He was always ready with a joke or a witty phrase. He loved to laugh and make others laugh. Everywhere we went, he knew someone. Both professional and personal. He treasured quality time up at the lake. He spent his last summer on Blackduck Lake with his wife. What a special thing to be right on the water, his sacred place. He loved watching the loons, taking the boat out for a sunset cruise, and fishing off the dock or out on the lake, but he loved most having his family there too, experiencing it together. We will miss his dedication to family, his love for Westerns, his playful nature, and most of all his love for people and life.

Chuck is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Kim Nelson, of Owatonna; son, Nathan (Jillian) Nelson, of Owatonna; siblings: Gregory Nelson of Owatonna; Mark (Carol) Nelson of Florence, Ariz.; Allan (Jolene) Nelson of Owatonna; Deborah (Leonard) Marti of Sahuarita, Ariz.; and Rebecca (Daniel) Diesler of Mukwonago, Wis.; along with many nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and JoAnn Nelson.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, with visitation beginning one hour before the service. Interment will be in the St. John's Cemetery in Owatonna.

Please make contributions in Chuck's memory in place of flowers to the American Cancer Society.

Our family extends our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the medical team at Saint Mary's Hospital. We would also like to thank his primary P.A. at Mayo Clinic. Words cannot describe how thankful we are for the care you provided Chuck and for the dignity, respect, and compassion you showed our family. Thank you for the kindness you showed us in such a difficult time. We are so blessed to be surrounded by so much love from our family and friends, and we thank everyone for offering their support and kind words. We also thank Michaelson Funeral Home, St. John Lutheran Church, Pastor Dave, and St. John’s Cemetery for the compassionate care shown to Chuck and our family.

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Katherine Vogelsang, 71, Owatonna

Publisher — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 21:18:49 +0000

Katherine Vogelsang, 71, Owatonna Publisher Fri, 10/30/2026 - 22:18

Katherine Ann Vogelsang, 71, passed away at her home on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026.

She was born on May 13, 1955, to Donald and Velma (Haskin) Bonnerup. Kathy grew up in Albert Lea and graduated from high school.

After high school, Kathy married her high school sweetheart, Steven Vogelsang, on Nov. 24, 1973. Together, they had three children: Jason, Stacy, and Kristi.

Kathy spent most of her career working as a bookkeeper at various retail grocery stores. She enjoyed working, watching television, spending time with her family, and staying busy. She valued time spent with her loved ones and enjoyed keeping active throughout her life.

Kathy is survived by her children, Jason (Jennifer Schultz) Vogelsang and Stacy (Robert) Tanner; two grandchildren, Kailyn and Elliot; her siblings, Paul (Mary) Bonnerup, Sandy (Tom) Sorenson, and Diane (Steve) Anderson; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Steven; her daughter, Kristi; her granddaughter, Scarlett; her parents, Donald and Velma Bonnerup; and her sister, Marilyn.

Friends may greet the family from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, 2026, at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna. Burial will take place at Hillcrest Cemetery in Albert Lea.

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

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Loraine Ripka, 69, Owatonna

Publisher — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 21:17:14 +0000

Loraine Ripka, 69, Owatonna Publisher Fri, 10/30/2026 - 22:17

Loraine Ina Ripka, 69, of Owatonna, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026, at Owatonna Hospital due to complications following a recent cancer diagnosis.

Loraine grew up on the family’s dairy farm with her parents, Anton “Tony” and Alma, and 11 living brothers and sisters in Dodge Center.

During high school, Loraine developed health issues that led to her first major surgery. She completely recovered and graduated from Dodge Center High School in 1975. Following high school, Loraine worked at Josten’s in Owatonna for six months before her second surgery, which resulted in an eight-month coma from March to November of 1976.

Loraine’s life was not an easy one, but she was a fighter and beat the odds repeatedly. Throughout the years that followed, Loraine faced extraordinary challenges with a quiet resilience and courage that was an inspiration to all who knew her.

After waking up from the coma, Loraine had to re-learn basic life skills like how to walk, how to talk and how to dress and feed herself. Once she was back on the farm for recovery, her devoted parents continued to help with her therapy and care daily on top of their farm chores. Loraine’s family poured so much love into her that she was eventually able to move to an apartment and live independently in Owatonna for several years.

Over time, Loraine needed to have more help with daily living. Although she lived with a traumatic brain injury that changed the trajectory of her life, it never erased the core of who she was. She never complained. She liked silly jokes, had a great sense of humor and a smile that lit up the room.

There were seven total brain surgeries and Mayo Clinic in Rochester called Loraine’s life a “miracle.” The family extends their deepest gratitude for the dedicated and compassionate care of the doctors and nurses over the decades, the caregivers at her group homes, including REM Woodvale where she had been living, and those who gave her rides to the local Episcopal Church when she was able to attend there in the past. Loraine had a deep faith, and although she couldn’t understand God’s plan for her life, she trusted Him. The family remembers how much her precious life brought all of them together. “We just think Loraine is God’s miracle!” her mother had stated in a 1986 newspaper article.

Loraine loved spending time with her family, watching Vikings football, going out to eat and attending the county fair every year. She enjoyed family holiday gatherings, music and family wedding dances.

She worked at Cedar Valley Services for 30 years as an assembly worker. That is where she met Brian Schumacher who became the love of her life. Despite her cancer diagnosis this year, Brian wanted to have a “commitment” ceremony. He truly loved her. Loraine and Brian had a spiritual union on July 17, 2026, in the presence of beloved family, friends, co-workers and their house mates and staff. It was a very hot day, but it was a grand celebration at Mineral Springs Park. It was the last time many of her family members would see her this side of heaven. She was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Loraine is survived by the love of her life Brian Schumacher, her siblings, Art (and Mary) Ripka, Gladys Mulari, Henry Ripka, Evelyn Neubauer, Shirley (and Lou) Ripka, Margaret (and Mike) Lerfald, and twin sister Loretta (and David) Wencl; brother-in-law, Sam Weeks; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Anton "Tony" and Alma Ripka; siblings, Lawrence (and Barb) Ripka, Anna (and Richard) Finger, Leo Ripka, Joyce Weeks, and Robert; sister-in-law, Marilyn Ripka; brother-in-law, Ron Neubauer; nephew, Brian Ripka; niece's son Cameron Burger, and her aunts, uncles and several cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna with Pastor Nate Palmer officiating. A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, at Riverside Cemetery in Dodge Center.

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Marilyn Betlach, 94, Owatonna

Publisher — Fri, 23 Oct 2026 15:09:51 +0000

Marilyn Betlach, 94, Owatonna Publisher Fri, 10/23/2026 - 17:09

The Betlach family mourns the peaceful passing of a beautiful soul Oct. 18, 2026.

Marilyn Jean was born July 27, 1932, to Albert & Gladys (Gullickson) Westby, and at age 6 welcomed a sister Karen (Karen Lindsay of San Diego, Calif.).

While a lifelong Minnesota resident, her life changed when she met John Betlach in Owatonna, and they soon became high school sweethearts. While John pursued his dental degree, Marilyn attended Nursing School, later working as head nurse of obstetrics and the nursery in Minneapolis.

She frequently talked of her love of caring for the babies. She extended her care of children as a school nurse.

Despite much sadness over the early loss of her father (his age 54), she found joy in her marriage to John Dec. 29, sharing over 70 amazing years together since that day. As parents they were blessed with four children: Jeff, Julie, Mary Kay and Scott.

Marilyn was an adventurous mother, allowing the children many pets, family ski trips, USA destinations and frequent fun times at the family's Lake Francis cottage. She shared a love of travel with her husband and family, visiting numerous countries covering six continents. Many a winter spent in Green Valley, Ariz., provided more wonderful times with cherished friends. She had an amazing talent for home decor, creating beautiful spaces, along with the "greenest of thumbs"... her flower gardens were the envy of us all. None could compete with her skill completing the most difficult crossword puzzles! She lived an active life, enjoying yoga, tennis and daily walks (through Kaplan's Woods, a favorite).

Marilyn was a beloved "Nana" to Chad, Lindsay, Jonathan, Christopher, Alexander and Johnny Max. The grandchildren enjoyed many summer visits to the Owatonna County Fair, parks and lakes, treats of mac & cheese and ice cream. She was an expert finder of four-leaf clovers and her family felt lucky beyond measure for her love. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary and was an avid "cheerleader" and supporter of all her children and grandchildren. She became a great grandmother of two as well.

Later in life Marilyn demonstrated strength and courage as she fought and won battles with ovarian and breast cancer. Her most painful challenge was the sudden loss of her son Scott due to congestive heart failure.

Sadly, her battle with dementia in recent years was a tough one, yet she transformed many caregivers into friends with her friendly, polite nature and frequent smiles. She was a beautiful woman inside and out.

She will be missed and celebrated by her husband John, son Jeff (Cheryl) of Altoona, Wis.; daughter Julie Free Heart (Northfield) and daughter Mary Kay (Jon) Holzerland of Lakeville.

The family expresses many thanks and appreciation for the staffs of Ecumen Brooks and Benedictine Living Community Rehab and Hospice for all their kindness and care.

Michaelson Funeral Homes of Owatonna is handling funeral arrangements.

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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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