Jeffrey Haugen, 42, Owatonna
Jeffrey Curtis Haugen, age 42, passed away peacefully at home on May 8, 2026, after a courageous 16-year, hard-fought battle with brain cancer. Though life brought many hardships and trials, Jeff’s story was also one of redemption, faith, love, and laughter.
Jeff was born to Curtis and Susan Haugen on December 2, 1983. He experienced profound loss early in life when his father died in a helicopter crash on January 21, 1986. Jeff grew up in Scandia, MN with his mother, sister, and brother, and then graduated from Chisago Lakes High School in 2002.
On October 3, 2004, Jeff gave his life to Jesus Christ, a decision that transformed the course of his life. His faith became the foundation that carried him through both joys and struggles. He spent a year in Thailand doing mission work and later devoted himself to serving others through prison ministry and leading recovery groups.
In 2010, Jeffrey became a father to his most beloved gift, Lucy Jean. He treasured being her daddy as she brought him immeasurable pride and joy.
The year 2010 was also when Jeff was diagnosed with brain cancer and thus began multiple trips over 16 years to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Despite cancer treatments, complications, and monitoring, Jeffrey fought to achieve goals and dreams. He lived in the Twin Cities for many years before moving to Owatonna, MN. He worked in various fields while living in the cities, becoming a realtor for a time, though he spoke most fondly about his years at Kowalski’s and his maintenance work at a senior living apartment complex, where his outgoing personality and humor brightened the days of many residents and coworkers alike.
Later in life, Jeff found love and companionship with Jennifer Ingvaldson, the love of his life, to whom he was engaged to be married. They created a home together with Jen’s daughters, Kallie and Danika.
Jeff was truly larger than life bringing enthusiasm and joy to those around him. He loved to talk, loved making people laugh, and never shied away from being the center of attention. His smile would light up a room, and even during difficult seasons, he retained a childlike joy that people found unforgettable.
He had a love for hard work, bonfires, and fishing — especially ice fishing. He enjoyed cheering on the Minnesota Wild and Twins. In quieter days when he couldn’t work due to treatments and seizures, he enjoyed watching birds in the backyard, playing cards, and helping with home projects. We all know that Jeff could spot a hawk or eagle anywhere in the sky or treetops.
Some of Jeff’s happiest memories were of times spent with Lucy and with Jenny, but also those that included extended family, David and Cheryl Lundquist, and Brian and Kathy Lundquist.
Jeffrey’s life has given us memories to cherish, much laughter, and the courage to continue to fight through battles seen and unseen. Especially in the last few years of his life, Jeffrey loved Jesus and was grateful for his blessings and salvation.
Jeff was preceded in death by his father, Curtis Haugen; grandparents Russ and Marie Haugen of Faribault, MN; grandparents Vern and Alice Lundquist of St. Paul, MN; uncles Dale, Gary and Steve Lundquist, uncle Brian Haugen, aunt Karen Morgan, 2 unborn siblings, and great-nephew Cyrus Hedlund.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Lucy Haugen; mother and stepfather, Susan and Richard Powell; sister Elizabeth (Ryan) Hedlund; brother Jeremy (Amber) Cornell; fiancée Jennifer Ingvaldson and Jeff’s “bonus” children, Lydia, Ethan, Kallie, and Danika; nephews Caden (Isabella) Hedlund and son Solomon; Carson, Michael, Logan, and Brady; nieces Cali and Kendall; many stepfamily members, and countless loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.
A visitation will take place at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna, MN, on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 4:00-6:00 pm. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Maranatha Church, 24799 Forest Blvd N, Forest Lake, MN, on Saturday May 30, 2026, at 11:00 am with visitation beginning at 10:00 am.
Memorials may be directed to Maranatha Church or AA of Minnesota. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com