Stephen J. Friesen

Stephen J. Friesen, age 72 of Faribault, MN passed away on Monday, January 13, 2025 at the Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, MN surrounded by his loving family. 

Stephen John, the son of Edwin and Mildred (Bultman) Friesen, was born on September 17, 1952 in Faribault, MN. He attended Faribault Senior High School and graduated with the class of 1971. Steve loved to work on cars and was a talented mechanic. He owned and operated his own service garage, Friesen’s Service for many years. During this time he met Joyce Krenske and they were united in marriage on November 9, 1990. Steve then worked at Sellner Manufacturing and later Rent and Save in Northfield, MN. Steve knew everyone and a trip to the store turned into a social event and many conversations took place. He cherished his grandchildren and loved spending time with them. He loved to cook and all were invited to Sunday dinners at their home. Bowling was a big part of his younger years and he sponsored a team in League Bowling. He also enjoyed snowmobiling and was a member of the Faribo Sno-Go Club for many years, loved turkey hunting and would practice his turkey call for a month prior to the hunting season. He spent time fishing, deer hunting and loved watching eagles flying. 

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Joyce Friesen of Faribault, MN; by children, Jeffery (Amy) Hansen of Medford, MN, Tara Niner of Montgomery, MN, Lisa (Tom) Herring of Lakeville, MN and Bethany (Brandon) Dahlin of Faribault, MN; by 15 grandchildren, Levii, Alexis, Cooper, Chloe, Jordyn, Hannah, Rachel, Bayley, Chris, Shanna, Mandi, Hayley, Carter, Zoey and Tanner; by 3 great grandchildren, Kaylee, Jasmine and Athena; by his siblings, Lorraine (Ron) Paschke of Shakopee, MN, Sharon Krenik of Morristown, MN, Denise (Dan) Keeley of Faribault, MN and Paul (Wanda) Friesen of Faribault, MN and by many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, David (Sharon) Friesen and Richard Friesen, and by two brothers-in-law, Chuck Krenik and David Reiter.  

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. at the Parker Kohl Funeral Home in Faribault with the Rev. Elden Eklund officiating.  

Visitation will be held at the Parker Kohl Funeral Home on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.