Sharon Bexell, 63, Owatonna
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.