Stacey Goetz

Stacey Goetz
July 24, 1969 - January 17, 2026
With her family by her side and her faith lighting the way, Stacey Joan Goetz passed into eternal rest on January 17, 2026, at the age of 56. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother; a treasured sister, aunt, and daughter; and a compassionate nurse who radiated joy and kindness to all who knew her.

Born on July 24, 1969, in Sisseton, South Dakota, to Les and Noreen Stillson, Stacey lived a life shaped by love, service, and deep faith. A 1987 graduate of Sisseton High School - and the Sisseton Snow Queen of 1987 - she followed God's calling into nursing at South Dakota State University. One week after earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in May 1993, she married the love of her life, Kendall Goetz, and began what would become a dedicated year career as an empathetic and faith filled nurse.

Kendall and Stacey met during their years at South Dakota State University and were married in Sisseton, South Dakota. They started their married life in Sioux City, Iowa, beginning what would grow into a beautiful year journey together. Stacey started her career as an ICU nurse at Marion Health Center in Sioux City, Iowa. In 1995, the family moved to Aberdeen, South Dakota, where Stacey worked for several local healthcare clinics. During those years, she formed deep, faith-rooted friendships that became like family and blessed her life in countless ways. In 1998, Stacey became the Director of Nursing at Northern State University - a role she embraced with pride, dedication, and compassion for the next 17 years. In 2015, trusting God's guidance for the next chapter of their lives, the family moved to Rochester, Minnesota, where Stacey joined the Rochester Public School District as a Licensed School Nurse. In her most recent years, she stepped away from clinical nursing to spend more time creating cherished memories with her family and caring for her mother, Noreen Stillson. Throughout her career, Stacey was known for her unwavering kindness, steady presence, and genuine love for those she served. Nursing was more than a profession for Stacey - it was a true calling and a reflection of her generous, faith filled, and compassionate heart.

Of all the roles Stacey held throughout her life, none meant more to her than being a mother. She was the proud and loving mom of Adam, Shawn, Grant, and Drew, and a devoted grandmother to Wes. Her children were the center of her world, and she poured her heart into supporting them, nurturing their dreams, and creating a home filled with warmth, joy, and undeniable love. One of Stacey's greatest joys was traveling with her family - whether the destination was near or far, she cherished every moment together and believed deeply in the beauty of shared experiences that became treasured memories. She often said, "My greatest achievement and purest joy is my four boys," a sentiment that perfectly reflects the love that defined her life.

Stacey also found joy in caring for others in the simple, everyday ways that made her presence so special. She was an exceptional cook who was always baking - filling her home with warmth and the comforting aroma of homemade treats. Her kitchen was a gathering place where laughter, conversation, and good food brought people together. She was known for her famous Pumpkin Bars, her irresistible Special-K Bars, and her delectable Strawberry Pretzel Salad - the kinds of treats that became traditions in her home and that her family will forever associate with her. Stacey will be remembered for her generous spirit, her loving heart, and the unwavering devotion she had for her family and friends. Though her time with us was far too short, her love and legacy will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Stacey is survived by her loving husband, Kendall Goetz; her sons, Adam (Gabrielle) and grandson Wes Goetz, Shawn (Emma) Goetz, Grant Goetz, and Drew Goetz; and her siblings, Greg (Sue) Stillson, Lisa (Doug) Lauer, John (Melissa) Stillson, David (Lisa) Stillson, and Mary Schuurmans. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who loved her deeply. She is preceded in death by her parents, Les and Noreen Stillson; her sister, Sharon Haaland; and her mother in law, Leota Goetz.

In lieu of flowers, the family is planning to establish a nursing scholarship through South Dakota State University in Stacey's honor-supporting future nursing students who will carry forward her legacy of compassion, service, and care. The family is also considering a memorial in her name. Additional details will be shared once these plans are finalized.

Public visitation will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN. A rosary will be prayed at 7:30 p.m. with a time of sharing to follow, all are welcome to join. On Friday, January 23, a public viewing will begin at 1:00 p.m. at Pax Christi, 4135 18th Ave NW, Rochester, MN, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. After the service, all are invited to proceed to Oakwood East Cemetery, 3681 Viola Rd NE, Rochester, MN 55906 for the graveside burial or remain at Pax Christi, where a hot meal will be served. The family will return to the church after the burial to join everyone for the meal.