Christena Jane Gasner, 87, of Ellendale, died Sunday, May 15, 2022 at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester.
She was born January 14, 1935 on a farm in Summit Township in Steele County, the daughter of Louis and Mary Emma (Smith) Olson. She graduated from Ellendale High School in 1953. She then began working as a secretary at Jostens in Owatonna.
Christena met Robert at the Owatonna Roller Rink as they both were avid skaters. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Robert Gasner, on June 27, 1954 at the Community Lutheran Church in Geneva, sharing 64 years together. They operated a dairy farm near Ellendale for over fifty years. She enjoyed taking loving care of all the various animals, along with planting all of the crops.
Christena enjoyed singing in the Sweet Adeline group in Owatonna, tending to her huge garden, and baking many sweet treats. Her most enjoyable moments were the times she spent with her grandchildren. They were her pride and joy and formed a special bond that will live on eternally in their hearts.
She is survived by her children, David Gasner of St. Paul and Sharon (Donald) Ramaker of Ellendale; grandchildren, Greg (Brittanny) Ramaker, Geoff (fiancée, Mackenzie Koble) Ramaker, Gretchen Ramaker, Paul (Kiya) Gasner, Matthew Gasner, Nicole Gasner; great-grandchildren, Olivia Christine Ramaker, Carsyn, Chayton, Elan and Odin Gasner; sister-in-law, Diann Olson of Mankato and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Robert Gasner; sister Deloris Olson; and brother Edward Olson.
A sincere thank you to the St. Mary’s ICU Heart Unit and to the Owatonna Hospital. Your loving compassion and dedication was greatly appreciated.
Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Thursday, May 19th from 4 - 7 p.m. and one hour prior to the service Friday, May 20, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna with Pastor Kristen Venne officiating. Interment will be in the Geneva Cemetery.
Michaelson Funeral Homes, Inc.
P.O. Box 482, 1930 Austin Road,
Owatonna, MN 55060
(507) 451-7943