Merley Ruth Phiefer, 88, of Owatonna, died Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at the Owatonna Hospital in Owatonna, Minnesota. Merley was born December 21, 1927 in Merrill, Wisconsin the daughter of Arthur and Edna (Latzig) Priebe. She moved with her family to Owatonna in 1932 and graduated from Owatonna High School in 1946. Merley married Melford Phiefer on June 23, 1947. They later divorced in 1967. In her early years, Merley worked at various restaurants. She then worked 20 years at the Hy Line Hatchery and 17 years at Owatonna Tool Company. Merley volunteered at the Steele County Food Shelf for many years and participated and volunteered at Senior Place, where she also enjoyed playing bingo. She was an official score keeper in the 50's for men's fast pitch softball tournaments and bowling league tournaments for the VFW, American Legion, and Eagles. She was recognized as Steele County Senior Citizen of the Year in 2009 by the National Exchange Club Unity for Service. She was a member of St. John Lutheran Church and VFW Auxiliary member for 50 years. Merley enjoyed baking, watching the Minnesota Twins and Professional Bull Riding. She loved horses and adopted many pets from the Humane Society. Most importantly, Merley adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved spending time with them sharing her love of baking and gardening. She is survived by her son, Dale (and Cindy) Phiefer of Owatonna; grandson, Jeff Phiefer of Owatonna; granddaughter, Stephanie (and Brian) Busho of Owatonna; two great granddaughters, Taylor and Lauren Busho. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Janice Priebe; and infant sister. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Friday, February 26, 2016 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The VFW Auxiliary Ritual will be held 5:00 PM on Friday at the funeral home. Private family funeral services will be held Saturday, February 27, 2016 at Michaelson Funeral Home with Pastor Dave Klawiter officiating. Interment will be in the Owatonna Memorial Gardens in Owatonna. Memorials are preferred to Steele County Humane Society, St. John Lutheran Church Building Fund, or Steele County Food Shelf. Visitation: 02/26/2016 17:00 02/26/2016 19:00 Service: 02/27/2016 10:00