Richard “Dick” Joseph Von Ruden, 74, of Owatonna, died unexpectedly on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Methodist Hospital in Rochester.

He was born October 17, 1951, in Owatonna, the son of Raymond and Delores (Mertinke) Von Ruden. As a child, Dick and his brothers enjoyed Boy Scouts and each one of them became an Eagle Scout which is the highest honor. When Dick wasn’t in school, he would work at his dad’s company were he learned many skills. Dick graduated from Owatonna High School in 1970 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Winona State University. After college, he taught Industrial Tech in Dubuque, Iowa for two years. In 1975, he met the love of his life, Diane (Grose), and in 1976, he decided to move back to Owatonna so they could be together. He returned to his father’s business, General Equipment Company and worked in purchasing. On November 17th, 1979, Dick and Diane were united in marriage. They welcomed three wonderful children together. After General Equipment was sold, Dick worked for Cybex until his retirement in 2020.

In Dick's free time, he loved riding motorcycle, taking his wife for a cruise in his 1973 Gremlin, restoring John Deere tractors and John Deere engines, hunting, and bringing his steam engine to steam and tractor shows. This past summer, Dick fulfilled one of his dreams which was attending the Hungry Hollow Steam and Tractor show in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Dick loved to tell stories to those around him and would hold a baby whenever possible. His family meant the world to him, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Diane of Owatonna; children, Kimberly (Chuck Bly) Grinnen of Hartland; Jeff Von Ruden of Owatonna, and Ashley Von Ruden of Owatonna; grandchildren, Emily Grinnen, Katelyn Grinnen, Meghan Karge, Holden Kos, Hunter Posey, and Hailey Bly; siblings, Dennis (Julie) Von Ruden, Nancy (Joe) Glentz, Phil Von Ruden, Nik Von Ruden, Vince (Suzanne) Von Ruden, Teresa (Marty) Brady, Chris (Sandy) Von Ruden, and Ted Von Ruden; beloved dog, Dixie; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Delores Von Ruden; brother, Greg Von Ruden; and sister-in-law, Terri Grose.

A celebration of life service will be held at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 2 PM with a visitation one hour prior.