Joseph Hennen

Joseph P. “Butch” Hennen Jr., 79, of St. Michael, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on the morning of February 7, 2024 after a long battle with Parkinson’s and IBM disease. His final days were spent with his loving family and caring staff at Quiet Oaks Hospice House in St. Augusta, Minnesota.

Butch was born on March 10, 1944 to Joseph Sr. and Sylvia (Ophoven) Hennen in Watkins, Minnesota. He grew up on the family farm and was one of ten siblings. Butch worked in the construction industry most of his adult life. In 1970, he co-founded Hennen Construction (sewer and water) Co. with his older brothers, Harold and Gene. After 24 years of dedication to the company, Butch retired at the young age of 50 years old. He spent his retirement playing the stock market, tending to his vegetable garden and fruit trees, and refurbishing old tractors. His beautiful home was his pride and joy.

Butch will be remembered most for his kindness, generosity, keen memory, and finding enjoyment in the simplest pleasures in life.

Butch is survived by his brothers and sisters, Ervin (Miriam) Hennen of Watkins, Eileen Kern of Paynesville, Harold Hennen of Maple Lake, Betty (Irv) Geislinger of Watkins, Carol Nistler of Watkins, and Steve (Angela) Hennen of St. Michael, his 40 nieces and nephews, and many great-nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sister, and their spouses, Gene and Bev Hennen, Janelle and Alvin Winter, Norbert “Sonny” Hennen, brothers-in-law Jerry Kern and Don Nistler, sister-in-law Joan Hennen, two nieces, and two nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the St. Anthony Catholic Church’s social hall in Watkins, Minnesota at 4:00 p.m. on February 19, 2024. Father David Hennen, Butch’s godson, will deliver a short memorial service at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner.