Steven Burnell Garness

Steven Burnell Garness, age 78, of Rose Creek, Minnesota, passed away on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at his home. He was born January 7, 1948, in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, to Edwin and Ruth (Nash) Garness. He graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1966, was drafted, and valiantly served in Vietnam from 1968-1970. He earned a Purple Heart, Bronze Star with Valor, and many others. He returned to Blooming Prairie and married Valerie Lynne Hanson, the girl that stole his heart in the second grade. Together they raised three children: Aaron, Brandee, and Casey. He graduated from meat cutting school in Pipestone, Minnesota, and eventually opened his own meat locker in Rock Dell, Minnesota. He then proceeded to open “It’s a Meat Store” in Blooming Prairie, where he was able to work right next door to Valerie. He also worked for many years as a mail carrier. After retirement, he and Valerie moved to Spearfish, South Dakota, to be closer to their grandchildren. He enjoyed playing cards, collecting conversation pieces, and spending time with friends and family. He enjoyed making people laugh and was well known for playing pranks on his friends and family. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Terry Garness; sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Jim Rysavy; and his wife, Valerie.

He is survived by his children, Aaron (Christine) Garness, Brandee Garness, and Casey (Sondra) Garness; his grandchildren, Cody, Annora, Jacob, and Kaitlyn Garness, Brayden Bishop, Kirby and Carsyn Garness; and great-grandson, Crew.

The family is planning a celebration of life in early June in Blooming Prairie. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.