Inez Thea Degen

Inez Thea Lund was born November 5, 1937 to Harry and Theodora (Thostenson) Lund. She was raised in Hartland Minnesota and Graduated from New Richland High School.

She married Gerald Johnson in 1955, they lived in Ellendale and had seven children together; Rick, Ron, Ryan, Rollie, Lu Ann, Roger and Ross “Poke’’.

She later married Stanley Degen in 1994. They lived in Arizona and Minnesota and spent many happy, active years together sharing their love of music, traveling and Auxiliary activities.

Inez enjoyed dancing, baking, canning, Bingo, casino trips, country music concerts and traveling. She was very proud of her Norwegian Heritage and shared cherished memories of her childhood in Hartland, the love of her dear parents, the special family celebrations with Norwegian foods and dancing in the kitchen.

She was a dedicated Lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary, Owatonna Post 3723 and volunteered much time at the club.

Inez passed away at age 87 on August 4, 2025 at the New Richland Care Center.

She is survived by her children Rick (Beckie), Rollie (Cheryl), Lu Ann (Brad) Prescher and Ross; her daughter-in-law Jolee Lee; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and her Shaunce and Thostenson cousins.

She is preceded in death by her husbands Stanley Degen and Gerald Johnson; sons, Ron, Ryan and Roger; grandson Avery; her parents; and her siblings Tiff, Norman and Nora.

May God Bless her and keep her in eternal peace and love.

There will be a Celebration of Life Ceremony at the Owatonna VFW, on Wednesday August 20th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM with the Auxiliary Ritual taking place at 5:00. Food to follow. Owatonna VFW: 135 Oakdale St. Owatonna, MN 55060