Lenore O'Brien, 87, Owatonna

Lenore Elizabeth O’Brien, 87, of Owatonna, passed away peacefully on Dec. 5, 2024, at her home.

Lenore was born April 21, 1937, in Superior, Wis., to Ralph and Mabel (Routh) McDowell. She married Edward O’Brien Sr. on Feb. 11, 1956, in Hibbing.

Together they had four children: Edward, Sara, Ralph and Calvin. Lenore spent the early years of her marriage as homemaker for her family. She then began working at SPX which continued for 19 years until her retirement.

Lenore enjoyed spending time with family, sewing, quilting, reading, doing puzzles, cross stitching, traveling, and most importantly, spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Some of her favorite memories were making homemade pizzas, pasties and desserts for her family during the holidays.

Lenore is survived by four children: Edward (Shelbie) O’Brien, Sara O’Brien, Ralph (Penny) O’Brien and Calvin O’Brien (Kristi Blaha); 10 grandchildren: Beth O’Brien (Josh Jerney), Erin O’Brien (Nate Mink), Kari (Adam) Wilson, Rebecca Zimmer (Jared Gardow), Ryan Zimmer (Maddy Malz), Derek (Lizz) O’Brien, Caitlin O’Brien, Hunter O’Brien (Katie Weise), Cody Blaha and Hunter Blaha; 14 great-grandchildren: Reed, Elliot, Klara, Toby, Monica, Thomas, Caitlin, Alec, Mia, Corbin, Scarlett, Milo, Brody and Bentley; two sisters, Bev and Alice (Don); and one nephew Brian.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward; parents; and grandson Jacob O’Brien.

Friends may greet the family Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, from 4-6 p.m. at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna. A Memorial Service will start at 6 p.m. led by Kay Fate.