Janet Ann Friesen

1967 - 2025

Owatonna - Janet Ann Friesen, age 58, of Owatonna, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 10, 2025. On August 30, 1967, Janet and her twin sister, Janel, were born in Rochester, only living a short time in the city until the family moved to Owatonna while the twins were in fifth grade. Janet graduated from Owatonna High School in 1985 and started her career working at Pamida and later moving on to work for Federated Insurance. Janet met her best friend, Michael Friesen, at Dully's bar and they eventually married on June 25, 1987, in Owatonna. They were married for 37 years and had been blessed with their daughter, Katie. She later worked at Viracon before starting at-home daycare where she provided a safe place for children. After daycare she worked at Let It Ride and KGP. Janet was currently working for the Minnesota Department of Corrections in Faribault in the mailroom. When she wasn't working, Janet loved being grandma and being able to spend time with her grandchildren always spoiling them with trips of McDonalds. Janet also spent time walking through arts and craft shows, admiring the details and intricate work.

Janet loved being outdoors. Growing up, she spent countless hours riding horses, which she cherished for many years. Spending time in nature hunting small game: pheasant, grouse, and turkey. The quiet waters of up north fishing brought her peace on family vacations, but Janet also enjoyed camping, ATV rides, and trap shooting. Janet loved winter trip vacations, her favorite being their trip to Costa Rica where she held a sloth, and the girls' trips she would take with Katie and girlfriends. Janet was an active member and current secretary of the Owatonna Eagles Club.

She is survived by her husband, Mike; parents, Sam and Julie Gehrking; daughter, Katie (Chris) Haakonson; granddaughters Harper and Palmer Haakonson; sister, Janel (Steven) Monson; half-sister, Erin (Gabriel) Martinez; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her in-laws, David and Sharon Friesen.

A memorial service for Janet will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna. A visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service with a luncheon to follow at the funeral home.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be expressed to Janet's family.