Steven D. Warner

1980 - 2026

Maple Grove - Warner, Steven D.

Age 45, of Maple Grove, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026, after a courageous battle with Primary Progressive Apraxia of Speech, a type of Frontotemporal Dementia.

Steve was born on March 10, 1980, in Owatonna, Minnesota, to Daniel and Katherine Warner. Raised on a farm, he developed the strong work ethic and steady character that would define his path. He graduated from Owatonna High School in 1998 and moved to St. Paul to attend the University of St. Thomas.

He earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees from St. Thomas. His love for his beloved Tommies remained lifelong, and he proudly continued his involvement through service on the Alumni Board.

After graduation, Steve went to work for General Mills. He spent the majority of his career working in sales and served as a Category Development Manager for the cereal category. He earned his nickname, "The Cereal Guy" due to his deep knowledge of cereal and willingness to help others. Steve loved his work and the many friends he made throughout his 22 year career at General Mills.

Early in Steve's General Mills' career, he met Sara Ronkainen who also worked for the company. They were a perfect match and were married on May 21, 2011. They had two daughters, Mallory and Della, who were the light of his life. Steve's love for his family was strong and he would do anything for them.

The family cabin in Nisswa, Minnesota, was his "happy place," and some of his happiest memories were made there, spending time with his entire family. One of his favorite weekends of the year was during the "Warner-Miller-Horten 1000," where he and the other guys in his family took a 1000 mile ride around the state. Steve loved to drive his '86 Corvette any chance he got - especially during this weekend.

A man of deep faith, Steve served his parish on the Finance Council and was an active member of the Gleason Farms HOA. He had a deep love of books and history and was a lifelong learner. Steve loved spending time with his friends and was blessed to have a wonderful group who supported him and his family throughout his illness.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Beehive Homes of Maple Grove and the team at Grace Hospice for their exceptional care of Steve during his final stages of his illness.

Steve was preceded in death by his grandparents, Raymond and Marie Warner, Paul Navins and Mary Navins Burke; his uncles and aunt, Jack Navins, Jim Navins, Patty Warner, and Larry Wlazik; and his father-in-law, Jerry Ronkainen.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sara; his beloved daughters, Mallory and Della; his parents, Dan and Kitty Warner; his brothers, Dave (Cori) Warner, Bobby (Darcy) Warner, and Mike (Katie) Warner; his mother-in-law, Sally Ronkainen; his sister-in-law, Leah (Nathan) Branson; his aunt and uncle, Mary Pat Wlazik and Ron (Mary Ann) Warner; as well as many nieces, a nephew, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

If you would, please take time to write a letter to Mallory & Della with a favorite memory of Steve and bring it to the funeral. These letters will be treasured in the years to come, helping them see the many ways their father touched the world.

Visitation will be held at Kozlak-Radulovich Maple Grove Chapel (13745 Reimer Drive) on Sunday, March 8, 2026, from 4-7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church (7180 Hemlock Lane N.) on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 11 AM, with visitation one hour prior. Interment at St. Patrick's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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"A Celebration of Life"

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