Irene L. Hystead, 84, of Owatonna, died Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at Owatonna Hospital. She was born February 13, 1924 in Ridgeway, Iowa the daughter of Walter and Leona (Koch) Peter. Irene graduated from Lime Springs High School in Lime Springs, IA. She attended Luther College in Decorah, IA and then moved to Minneapolis to attend a business school there. Irene was a cook for Mankato State and Mankato House for several years. She enjoyed crafts, bingo, national politics, and sports, especially the Minnesota Vikings. Irene loved spending time with her grandchildren. She is survived by son, Thomas (and Marsha) Hystead of Duluth; daughter, Nancy (and Michael) Droegemueller of Fairmont; son, Richard Hystead of Richfield; son, Jeffrey Hystead of North Mankato; daughter, Laurie (and Bruce) Leppert of Owatonna; ten grandchildren; one great-grandchild; brother, Vale (and Dorothy) Peter of Roland, IA; sister Shirley Mindis of Monticello; along with many nieces and nephews. Irene was preceded in death by her parents and one nephew. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Thursday, January 8, 2009 from 10-11 AM. A memorial service will be held Thursday, January 8, 2009 at 11:00 AM at Michaelson Funeral Home. Memorials are preferred to the choice of the donor. Visitation: 01/08/2009 10:00 01/08/2009 11:00 Service: 01/08/2009 11:00