Obituaries

Terry Pechacek, 69, Hartland

Publisher — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 13:50:44 +0000

Terry Pechacek, 69, Hartland Publisher Sat, 07/25/2026 - 15:50

Terry Dean Pechacek of Hartland was born in Owatonna to Robert and Marjorie Pechacek on Oct. 16, 1956. He attended Owatonna public schools until moving to Arizona at age 17. He later returned to the Owatonna area.

He married Dawn Quimby and together they had one son, Terry James (T.J.) before divorcing later. He later married Evonne Meade.

Terry drove truck for several companies, the latest being at McLane Trucking for 25 years before retiring in 2024.

Terry passed away unexpectedly on July 6, 2026, at White Pines Memory Care in Cottage Grove, from dementia.

His favorite pastimes were golfing, lawn work, riding his motorcycle, and going to auctions.

Terry is survived by his wife, Evonne; son, T.J.; two stepdaughters, Jessica and Kendra; one granddaughter, Lauren Pechacek; nine stepchildren: Eric, Conner, Ella, Izzy, Xavier, Gracie, Miyah, Kaden, and Raelynn; four sisters: Shirley Kern, Mary Quaintance, Mona Edgar (Gary), Roberta Rodriquez; four brothers: Marlin (LeeAnn), Milo, Edward, and Daniel; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; both sets of grandparents; and brothers-in-law, Richard Quaintance and Ralph Kern.

A memorial gathering was held on July 14, 2026, at Grace Lutheran Church in Dodge Center.

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Robert Turner, 84, Northfield

Publisher — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 13:48:53 +0000

Robert Turner, 84, Northfield Publisher Sat, 07/25/2026 - 15:48

Robert "Bob" Turner, 84, passed away peacefully during the early morning hours of July 17, 2026, at Benedictine Living Community in Northfield.

Bob was born on Aug. 11, 1941, in Chatfield, to Warden and Eva (Armstrong) Turner. He was one of 12 children and grew up in Blooming Prairie, attending school there until his sophomore year before transferring to Pacelli High School in Austin, where he graduated.

Bob earned his bachelor's degree in history and the humanities from Winona State University before completing graduate studies at the University of Iowa. His passion for education and lifelong learning remained a defining part of who he was.

After graduating from college, Bob joined the Peace Corps as part of an inaugural group serving in Uganda, East Africa, where he taught at a boys' preparatory school for three years.

Upon returning to Minnesota, he taught at Austin High School before moving to the Alexandria, Va., area. When in Alexandria he became a curriculum and staff development coordinator for Prince George's County Public Schools, where he helped develop International Baccalaureate (IB) programs at three district high schools before retiring.

In 1971, Bob met Brian Anderson and they spent the next 37 years together until Brian's death in 2008. Bob and Brian enjoyed world traveling and adventures together. Bob eventually returned to Northfield, a community that held a special place in their hearts through Brian's connection to Carleton College, family, and the many visits they shared over the years. There, Bob continued his love of education by tutoring students at both Carleton College and St. Olaf College.

Bob embraced life to its fullest. He was an avid runner, an enthusiastic reader, and an extraordinary intellectual with an incredible memory. Well-read in nearly every subject, he loved world travel, excelled at trivia, and was a gifted storyteller. His stories—especially those from his Blooming Prairie childhood and his many adventures around the world—brought joy to everyone who knew him. Family meant everything to Bob. He cherished staying connected with his many nieces and nephews and was deeply loved by all whose lives he touched.

Bob is survived by his brothers, Larry (Sonja) Turner of Kasson; Denny Turner of Dodge Center; and Jim (Teresa) Turner of Mantorville; his sister-in-law, Ann Turner of Lake Hiawatha, N.J.; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Warden and Eva (Armstrong) Turner, his lifelong partner, Brian Anderson; his brothers, Ike (Betty) Turner of Austin; Norman (Hilda) Turner of Austin; Dean Turner of Lake Hiawatha, N.J.; and Laddie Turner; his sisters, Dolores (Alden) Sletvold of California; Joan (Maynard) Sathre of Austin; Yvonne Rogers of Rochester; and baby Ramona.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the friends and staff of Benedictine Living Community in Northfield for the compassionate care and kindness they provided to Bob.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Benedictine Living Community, 2030 North Ave., Northfield, on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Arrangements are with the Bierman, Benson & Langehough Funeral Home of Northfield. Those wishing to honor Bob's memory are invited to make a memorial contribution to FiftyNorth in Northfield, supporting the programs and community that reflect Bob's lifelong commitment to education, curiosity, and connection. Donations may be made online through the FiftyNorth Giving at https://fiftynorth.org/donate/.

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Harold Underwood, 91, Clermont, Fla.

Publisher — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:09:57 +0000

Harold Underwood, 91, Clermont, Fla. Publisher Wed, 07/22/2026 - 22:09

Harold Robert Underwood, age 91, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Clermont, Florida, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, service, and friendship that spanned the globe.

Harold was born on Sept. 30, 1934, in Blooming Prairie, to Edgar Underwood and Myrtle Underwood. He was the sixth of eight children and grew up with a deep love for his Minnesota roots, a love he carried with him throughout his life. He often shared fond memories of skiing behind a car through snowy roadside ditches during the winter and playing sports at Blooming Prairie High School. No matter where life took him, he treasured every opportunity to return home to Minnesota and reconnect with family.

Harold proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he developed the technical skills that launched an accomplished career. Over the years, he worked for Honeywell in Florida, NASA in South America, Walt Disney World (Reedy Creek) in Central Florida, ABC Bus (Central FL) and ARAMCO in Saudi Arabia. His work allowed him to travel extensively, but it was the friendships he formed around the world that remained among his greatest treasures.

A man of steadfast faith, Harold was an active member of his church throughout his life. Most recently, he faithfully served at Woodlands Lutheran Church in Montverde, Fla., where he found a loving church family and many dear friends.

Harold believed that serving others was one of life's greatest callings. He generously gave of his time as a Boy Scout troop leader for many years, helping to mentor young men and instill values of character, responsibility, and service. He also coached his children's baseball and softball teams, where he taught not only the fundamentals of the game but also the importance of teamwork, perseverance, respect, and good sportsmanship. Whether at church, in his community, or on the ball field, Harold led by quiet example and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Myrtle Underwood; his first wife, Jeanette, who passed away in 2014; his son, Roger, who passed away in June 2023; his siblings Chet, Dorothy, Tom, Frank, and Bill; and two great-grandchildren.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of eleven years, Ruth; his sisters, Barbara and Darlene; his son Steve; his daughter Mari (Steve); his daughter Cindy (Gene), along with his two step-children Kim (Eric) and Kirk (Kelly). He also leaves behind his cherished 18 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his immediate family, Harold is survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members across the country, as well as countless friends who became family throughout his remarkable life.

Harold's greatest gifts were his unwavering faith, his devotion to his family, his heart for serving others, and his ability to make lifelong friends wherever he lived. Whether in Minnesota, Florida, South America, Saudi Arabia, or anywhere his journey led him, he left a lasting impression through his kindness, generosity, integrity, and enduring spirit of service. His example of faith, leadership, and sportsmanship will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, his beloved church family, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and the many friends he made throughout the world.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8, at 1 p.m. at Woodlands Lutheran Church, 15333 County Road 455, Montverde, Fla. A reception on the church patio will immediately follow the service, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Harold's remarkable life.

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LeRoy Sommers, 90, Owatonna

Publisher — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:03:00 +0000

LeRoy Sommers, 90, Owatonna Publisher Wed, 07/22/2026 - 22:03

LeRoy Sommers passed away at Abbott Northwestern Hospital with his family by his side on July 16, 2026.

LeRoy, the eldest child of Earl and Orpha (Langlie) Sommers, was born at the family home in Ellendale, on May 15, 1936. He was later joined by three brothers and one sister.

On April 20, 1963, at Aurora Lutheran Church, he married Newell Vaith, and they shared 63 wonderful years together. If you saw one, you saw the other, whether it was working in the field, taking care of their livestock, mowing their lawn, snowmobiling with friends, dancing to old-time music, or supporting their children and grandchildren in all of their activities.

LeRoy was known as a quiet man and friend to many with his kind, gentle, loving soul. He was always there when somebody needed help. He was a lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church, holding various roles in the church. In his early years, he drove truck for Oldefendt/Krause Livestock along with farming. LeRoy was involved with the Ellendale Hustlers 4-H Club in his youth and later as a parent. LeRoy looked forward to getting his fall crops out of the field so he could enjoy his time deer hunting in Birchdale with family and friends.

Later in life, he and Newell enjoyed many special days at the lake with their children and grandchildren. Even though he did not care for water, he bought the pontoon to give his grandchildren all the leisure rides they wanted. He was a very patient man. LeRoy and Newell lived in Lemond Township until they moved to Owatonna in the fall of 2018.

LeRoy is survived by wife of 63 years, Newell; children Steven (Amy) Sommers, Apple Valley; Andy (Michon) Sommers, White Bear Lake; and Marietta (Skip) Ruppe, Northfield; grandchildren Michelle (Austin) Chouanard, Tanner (Alexandra) Ruppe, Marissa (Dylan) Kooner, Quentin Sommers, Hannah Sommers, and Spencer Sommers; great-granddaughter Elliana Chouanard; siblings Wayne (Mary) Sommers, Maryann (Denis) Woodfill, and Phillip (Lori) Sommers; brother- and sister-in-law Bill (Linda) Vaith; along with many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Orpha Sommers; brother David Sommers; mother- and father-in-law Rodney and Violet (Thompson) Vaith; and niece Christina Vaith.

Friends may greet the family on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Brick-Meger Funeral Home and for one hour prior to the funeral at the church. Funeral service will be held Thursday, July 23, at 11 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 7126 SW 98th St., Ellendale, with Pastor Billie Jo Wicks presiding.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorials to Zion Lutheran Church in LeRoy's honor. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.

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Carol Diedrich, 90, formerly of Owatonna

Publisher — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:02:02 +0000

Carol Diedrich, 90, formerly of Owatonna Publisher Wed, 07/22/2026 - 22:02

Carol Diedrich, 90, of Frisco, Texas, formerly of Owatonna, Minnesota, passed away on Feb. 28, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Owatonna Country Club, 1930 LeMond Road, Owatonna. Full obituary can be found at www.megercares.com and online at steelecountytimes.com.

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Sharon Bexell, 63, Owatonna

Publisher — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 19:59:27 +0000

Sharon Bexell, 63, Owatonna Publisher Wed, 07/22/2026 - 21:59

The family of Sharon Marie Bexell, age 63, is deeply saddened to announce her passing on July 19, 2026.

Sharon was born on Oct. 5, 1962, to Ruth and Jake Gillen of Medford. She lived a life rooted in compassion, generosity, and love.

On Aug. 3, 2013, she married the love of her life, Rick Bexell. Together they built a life filled with laughter, family, and countless cherished memories.

After earning her nursing degree from Rochester Community College, Sharon became a registered nurse and devoted her career to caring for others. She served residents in several senior living communities throughout Owatonna and Faribault, treating each person like family. Her kindness, knowledge, and unwavering dedication touched not only the lives of her residents but also the many coworkers she mentored.

Growing up on a farm instilled in Sharon a deep appreciation for simple joys and hard work, values she carried throughout her life.

Sharon's greatest joy was making Christmas magical and seeing the excitement it brought to the faces of those she loved. Together, she and Rick transformed their home into a winter wonderland, complete with eight beautifully decorated Christmas trees, countless snowmen, and expansive village scenes.

Sharon was also an incredible baker, and she loved watching her grandchildren decorate cookies, knowing they would end up wearing and eating more frosting than they ever put on the cookies. She treasured watching her grandchildren grow through sports, activities, and life's special moments. Whether she was canning or sewing, she poured love into everything she created. She found genuine joy in celebrating the passions and accomplishments of others, making everyone feel seen, valued, and encouraged.

One of Sharon's happiest places was at the cabin with Rick, quietly enjoying the peaceful view of the water. She also loved traveling with Rick to tropical destinations, finding peace and beauty in the ocean. Sharon's wish for those she loved was simple: whenever you see a lake, river, or ocean, think of her. May the sight of the water bring comfort, remind you of the beautiful memories you shared, and help you smile even through the sadness of saying goodbye.

Sharon will be lovingly remembered by her husband Rick of Owatonna; her four children Joe (Mandy) Arnold of Kenyon, Matt (Erika) Arnold of Medford, Connie (Andrew) Toavs of Medford, and Shannon Arnold of Houston, Texas; stepchildren Kaitlin Bexell of Minneapolis and Brock Bexell of Layton, Utah; her grandchildren Bailey Arnold, Bradley Arnold, Brooklyn

Arnold, Avery Arnold, Brandy Arnold, Emmy Arnold, Grayson Arnold, Fischer Toavs, Waylon Toavs, Brent Bexell and Emilia Bexell; father Jake Gillen of Faribault; her siblings Bill (Melinda) Gillen of Glenville, Brian (Stacey) Gillen of Medford, Jim (Marny) Gillen of Wautona, Wis., and Tom (Jennifer) Gillen of Lakeville; and cherished friends.

Sharon was preceded in death by her mother Ruth Gillen.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.

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Patricia Rossi, 101, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 14:40:28 +0000

Patricia Rossi, 101, Owatonna Publisher Mon, 07/20/2026 - 16:40

Patricia (Pat) Lina (Jensen) Rossi died on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Birchwood Cottages Memory Care in Owatonna.

Born on July 2, 1924, she passed away just short of 102 years old. She was born in Rochester and named Lina Patricia Jensen by her parents Ernest and Gertrude (Bjerring) Jensen. Later, as an adolescent, she legally changed her name to Patricia Lina Jensen. She had one brother, Robert (Bob) Jensen, who took over and ran the Jensen family Ace Hardware store in downtown Rochester for decades.

She married Richard (Dick) Edward Rossi on Dec. 27, 1946, while Richard was attending dental school at the University of Minnesota. Together, they raised five children: Steve (Meredythe), Bryan (Joan), Kent (Betsy), Richard (Mary), and Patrice all of whom survive her today. She is also survived by several grandchildren.

She attended the University of Minnesota, earning a degree in dental hygiene. During her time at the U of M, she was a member of the synchronized swimming team. Pat and Dick moved to Plainview, where they bought a dental practice and where Pat helped out as his dental hygienist. After seven years in Plainview, the couple moved to Rochester, where Dick cofounded the Northwest Dental Group in 1965.

In 1967, the couple traveled with their five children to Madagascar where Dick practiced dentistry at a missionary hospital for seven weeks. While Dick spent long days at the hospital, Pat was tasked with creating meals for the family of seven from rice, papaya and banana; deciding whether to bake, grill or broil odd cuts of meat from different types of cows and goats and keep clean the French bamboo-walled prefab home on a bare concrete slab. While not cooking or cleaning, Pat learned how to filter and save water, launder clothing outdoors and learn enough Malagasy words to communicate the need for help. The whole family learned to finish using electricity before 10:00 p.m. when the village generator was turned off and all went black and quiet.

The Madagascar trip came up quickly for Pat and Dick and once they learned that round-the-world plane tickets were cheaper than round-trip tickets to Madagascar, they added to their itinerary. Enroute to Madagascar, they visited London, Copenhagen, Lucerne, Rome, Athens, and Istanbul. Enroute home from Madagascar, they visited Nairobi, Delhi, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Hawaii. The entire trip lasted more than four months and changed forever the lives of the entire family.

Pat and Dick continued their travels primarily as delegates for professional exchanges that allowed them to interact with many international professionals and embrace the beauty

and diversity of other cultures. Their travels included China, South Africa, Indonesia and Cuba. When they decided to chart on a map all their lifetime travels, it was difficult to see the map because of the number of pins, connected by dental floss, representing each visited place.

Pat loved swimming, dancing and downhill skiing and played golf avidly at both Soldiers Field and the Rochester Golf and Country Club. She had a great swing. She volunteered at the League of Women’s Voters, United Methodist Church, Aldrich Nursery School, Stephen’s Ministry, and the Rochester Art Center with particular emphasis on the annual Beaux Arts Ball. She was a great seamstress and designed and sewed Beaux Arts Ball costumes for Dick and her. She played piano and made sure all five of her kids took piano lessons. Likewise, all the kids were required to attend a short season of ballroom dancing classes regardless of their personal preferences.

Pat never complained (to any avail) as the two older sons formed rock and roll bands which practiced more nights than not in the basement. Steve, on drums, was with the Pagans. Bryan played keyboards, with the Downchilds. The bands were loud; practice was frequent and never without many friends and neighbors listening while sitting on the basement stairs or congregating in the driveway right outside the basement. People speak of “garage” bands, but the Rossi bands played in the basement while Pat and Dick mixed a martini, smiled, and tried to hear themselves upstairs. One musician still loves to share the story when “Mrs. Rossi” came down to the basement to inform the band members, “I can’t hear the telephone ringing!”

Pat Rossi was a great mom. She was a good person. It was a drag to see her succumbing to dementia in her final five years of life. Yet, during her years with dementia, she continued to entertain her family and others with her great wit. On the day of her death, as her children gathered outside the memory care unit, a woman whose husband was a memory care resident, provided condolences to Pat’s family, ending with, “She was a hoot!”

A memorial gathering will be held Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m., at Northern Hills Golf Club, 4721 W Circle Dr. NW, Rochester.

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Phyllis Wheeler, 92, Medford

Publisher — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 22:59:25 +0000

Phyllis Wheeler, 92, Medford Publisher Tue, 07/14/2026 - 00:59

Phyllis Martha Wheeler, age 92, passed away on July 12, 2026, at Medford Senior Care in Medford.

Phyllis was born to Elizabeth and Kenneth Wiggins on a farm in Dodge County. She graduated from Dodge Center High School. Following graduation, she moved to Rochester, where she worked as a secretary at a plumbing business.

In 1953, Phyllis married Earl Wheeler and joined him in Norfolk, Va., while Earl was in the U.S. Navy. They moved back to Minnesota in 1957. Phyllis worked at Steele County Social Services for 20 years.

Phyllis and Earl celebrated 67 years of marriage before Earl’s death in 2020. In their retirement, Phyllis and Earl enjoyed traveling and took several tours as well as many trips to Alaska.

Phyllis was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church where she volunteered as a lecturer, funeral worker, and sang in the choir. Phyllis kept very busy in book club, bridge club, volunteering with multiple organizations in Owatonna, including the Red Cross, and importantly, the daily lady’s coffee gathering.

She is survived by her children Mike (Becky), Pat (Ritchie), Paul (Jeanne), Dave (Renee), John, and Matt; 16 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Sharon Wiggins and Sharril Wheeler; and family friend, Sandra Anderson.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Earl, infant son, Phillip, her parents, and brothers James Wiggins and Donald Wiggins.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Medford Senior Care Facility and to Moments Hospice.

The funeral service will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 512 S. Elm Ave., Owatonna, on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. with visitation one and a half hours before the service. Parish Rosary will be recited at 8:45 a.m. Interment with be at Concord Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to a charity of your choice or to St. Joseph Catholic Church.

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

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James Klecker, 82, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 22:57:56 +0000

James Klecker, 82, Owatonna Publisher Tue, 07/14/2026 - 00:57

James (Jim) Francis Klecker, age 82, passed away on July 11, 2026, exactly eight years after the passing of his beloved wife, Barbara.

Jim was born on June 30, 1944, to Joseph P. and Martha (Wesely) Klecker. He grew up on the family dairy farm near Litomysl and developed a lifelong love of farming that shaped the rest of his life.

In 1965, Jim proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War before being honorably discharged as a Specialist E-4 in 1967. He remained a proud Vietnam veteran and longtime member of the Owatonna VFW and Blooming Prairie American Legion.

Following his military service, he purchased his first combine and worked day and night custom farming for local farmers. His hard work paid off, and the combine was completely paid for by the end of its first harvest season. He also worked at Peterson Floor Covering, Faribault Turkey Plant and at the Owatonna Tool Company.

On May 8, 1971, Jim married Barbara Srsen. They began their journey together in a rented home in Hope. In 1972, they purchased their first farm in Summit Township and Jim continued to live there until his passing.

Together they built their farming operation in Summit Township and raised their two sons, Michael and David, whom Jim often called his greatest blessing, who now operate the family farm. Nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his children and grandchildren.

A lifelong member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Litomysl, Jim faithfully served his parish and community. He spent 32 years on the Steele County Soil and Water Conservation Board and operated Klecker Livestock Hauling for more than 40 years. Known for his gift of conversation, Jim never met a stranger and treasured time spent visiting with family, friends, and neighbors. He enjoyed going to local cafes where they BS’ed for hours and flipped for the tip. After Barb's passing, Jim spent many hours sharing meals and conversation with his dear friend, Dee, whose friendship meant a great deal to him.

Jim is survived by his sons, Michael (Sara) Klecker and David (Patricia) Klecker; his grandchildren, Jacob, Jenna, Joseph, Alexis, Brendan, and Harbor; his sister, Rose Ann (Bruce) Kubicek; his brothers, John (Jan) Klecker and Dan Klecker; sister-in-law Marlys Wencel, brother-in-law David Srsen, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Barbara; sister-in-law Marcia Klecker; brother-in-law Victor Wanous; and nephew David Wencl.

Friends may greet the family from 4–7 p.m. on Thursday July 16, 2026, at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna, and one hour prior to the funeral at church. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. on Friday July 17, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church at Litomysl,

9946 SE 24th Ave., Owatonna. Burial to follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery at Litomysl with Military Honors provided by the Steele County Funeral Unit. A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at 3:45 p.m. on Thursday before the visitation at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Holy Trinity Catholic Church at Litomysl or St. Mary’s Catholic School in Owatonna. For more information or to leave an online condolence message go to www.megercares.com.

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Dorothy Bouwman, 82, Owatonna

Publisher — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 22:56:46 +0000

Dorothy Bouwman, 82, Owatonna Publisher Tue, 07/14/2026 - 00:56

Dorothy Jean Bouwman 82, of Owatonna, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Dorothy was born on Oct. 11, 1943, in Chippewa County to Herman and Sarah (Andresen) Honken. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She found joy in going out to eat, playing card games with family, and watching TV. She truly enjoyed all the holidays.

Her greatest happiness came from spending time with her family, and the love she gave will continue to live on in all who knew her.

She is survived by her children Brenda (Ron) Hager and Daryl Bouwman; former husband Kenneth Bouwman; grandchildren Jennifer (Dylan) Radel, Amara Bouwman (Justin Sauer), Cody (Jamie) Hager, Alixxandra Mogan, Cassandra (Cameron) Sherlock, Aryanna (Tony) Avila, Jessica Hager, MaKenzie Leonard and Jonathan Bouwman; great-grandchildren Cozette Brown, Cayden Hager, Mallory Hager, Kai Radel and Vincent Avila; and siblings Alvin Honken, Ronald (Susan) Honken, David (Mary) Honken, and Dianne (Lloyd) Tebben.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Christine, her parents, her brother and sister-in-law Harold and Vonnie Honken, her sister and brother-in-law Gertrude and Russell Sietsema, sister-in-law Jean Honken, one grandchild, Kristen, and one great-grandchild, Audriannah.

Funeral service will be held Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Associated Church, 800 Havana Road, Owatonna, at 2 p.m., with visitation starting at 1 p.m. until the time of service. Interment will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank everyone for their love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.

Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that her love, wisdom, and beautiful spirit will remain with us forever.

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

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