James R. Hedeen

James Richard Hedeen, age 75 of Vasa, died on Wednesday evening, December 4, 2024 at Mayo Clinic Hospital - Rochester, St. Mary's Campus, after battling cancer and heart issues since July.

Jim was born on May 11, 1949 in Red Wing, the son of Steven and Joyce (Banitt) Hedeen. He grew up in the Vasa area and attended Vasa School. He later graduated from Cannon Falls High School in 1967. He married Suzanne Ahrens on May 19, 1973.

Jim enjoyed farming and working at Meyers in Hager City for 46 years. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time at the cabin with relatives and friends. He most loved following his children and grandchildren's sports and activities.

He was an active member of Vasa Lutheran Church and the Vasa Museum. He was proud and happy to help with the Vasa community dinners for the past 11 years. He also served as clerk for 28 years on the Vasa Township Board, as well as serving on the Belle Creek Watershed board.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Sue; his children, Holly (Joe) Mudgett of Lakeville and Casey Hedeen (Kristi Vosejpka) of Hastings; six grandchildren, Tyler Mudgett, Ryan Mudgett, Emery Hedeen, Cayden Hedeen, Ella Mudgett, and Hudson Hedeen; sisters-in-law, Julie Hedeen of Red Wing, Shirley Hedeen and Helen Hedeen, both of Vasa; mother-in-law, Lorraine Ahrens of Blooming Prairie; brothers-in-law, Brad (Sherry) Ahrens, Brian (Lisa) Ahrens, Randy (Becky) Ahrens, and Marshall (Patty) Ahrens, all of Owatonna; aunt, Delila Heydeman of Zumbrota; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, infant Thomas, John, Daniel, and David; sister-in-law, Karla and Tim Ihrke; niece, Heather Ahrens; and father-in-law, Martin Ahrens. 

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 9 from 4-7 pm at Lundberg Funeral Home, Cannon Falls. A memorial service will be on Tuesday, December 10 at 11 am, with visitation from 10-11 am, at Vasa Lutheran Church. This service will be live-streamed and available to watch below. Interment will follow at the church cemetery. Active urn bearers will be his grandchildren.

There is handicapped parking available at the back (north side) of the church.

Memorials may be given in Jim's name to the window fund at Vasa Lutheran Church, the Vasa Museum, or to cancer research.

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION: For those who would like to participate in Jim’s service via livestream, you can watch the service on Tuesday, December 10 at 11:00 am. It can be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of this page and click PLAY to begin. Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall to let the family know you were able to watch the service. If you are having troubles with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.