Ronald Martin Steffen

RONALD MARTIN STEFFEN, age 75, of Waseca, died peacefully on Christmas morning, December 25, 2024, at his lifelong home.

Born on January 15, 1949, at home in rural Waseca, Ron was the youngest child born to Earl and Grace (Kumerow) Steffen. He received his education at Waseca Central High School, graduating with the class of 1967. Following the unexpected passing of his father, Ron, at the age of 18, took on the responsibility of caring for his mother. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his lifelong devotion to family and friends. Ron was a farmer at heart and worked alongside his dad on the farm, raising milk cows and crops. After his father's death, he continued to manage the farm for a short time while providing support and care to his mother.

Ron later worked for Design Homes, where he met Marcia Tollefson. They were united in marriage on July 5, 1974, at Norwegian Grove Lutheran Church in Gaylord. Together, they made their home at Ronald’s childhood homestead, where they raised two sons. For over 40 years, Ron worked at Brown Printing, where he was the head of the lab producing ink for the printers.

Throughout his life, Ron and Marcia enjoyed traveling to Mexico with friends, Spencer and Patti Wilker, visiting their children, and following their grandchildren’s activities. He was a rock-solid family man who would do whatever it took to bring his family together. Ron enjoyed mowing the lawn, playing cards, hunting in his younger years, and was an avid fisherman. A devoted Christian, he was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Owatonna, serving on the church council.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Marcia; sons: Peter (Christine) Steffen of Waconia, Tim (Lidia) Steffen of Storm Lake, IA; grandchildren: Grace (20), Charlie (18), Jack (18), Joshua (20), Brianna (19), Gabriella (11), Jacob (8), and Isaac (4); sister: Darlene (Bob) Jones of Napa Valley, CA; sister-in-law, Joyce Steffen of Bloomington; along with nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Duane Steffen.

Visitation will be from 2:00 – 5:00 PM on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at the Third Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral Homes in Waseca. Visitation will continue for one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday. 

Funeral Service will be at 11:00 AM on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Owatonna with Rev. Roger Rockhoff officiating. Interment will be in Woodville Cemetery.