Richard Koens, age 74, passed away peacefully at his home in St. Louis Park, Minn., on Oct. 5, 2026. Richard was born to George and Dorothy Ann (Gonnerman) Koens on March 11, 1952, in Pipestone, Minn. He grew up on farms near Sherman, S.D.; Hills and Beaver Creek Minn. Richard graduated from Hills-Beaver Creek High School in 1970, an outstanding athlete in football, basketball and track.
He moved to a farm outside Jasper, Minn., becoming a father to two daughters, Rebecca and Dana. In around 1985, Richard moved to Hopkins, Minn., and began a video tape duplication business, continuing that throughout his life. In 1998, Rick began a 26½-year career at Home Depot, retiring in 2025 known as the friendly hardworking guy in the Garden Center. He formed friendships that he lovingly noted were his Home Depot family.
Rick loved gardening nurturing his tomatoes, lettuce, geraniums, etc. to harvest and wintering some into
spring. He had a passion for watching football, his favorite team the Minnesota Vikings. Animals and especially dogs had a special place in his heart. His final companions, Wizard and Stapleton, were especially loved and brought great companionship up until his final days.
Richard is survived by his daughter, Rebecca Koens (Ryan Sauers) and granddaughter, Kylee Sauers, Rockford, Minn.; sister, Linda (Jim) Barnhart, Woodbury, Minn.; nephew, Ryan (Nicole) Barnhart, Cottage Grove, Minn.; niece, Kathleen (Peter) Kenyon, Minnetonka, Minn.; uncles, Marvin (Margaret) Gonnerman, Luverne, Minn., and Frank Koens, Jr. Garretson, S.D.
He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Dana Koens, and parents George and Dorothy Ann Koens (previously of Luverne). While he will be greatly missed, there is comfort in knowing he is at peace with Dana and his parents. May he rest peacefully, surrounded by the love of those who went before him and the memories of those who loved him on earth.
Full obituary/arrangements by Washburn-McReavy, Edina. Minn. A memorial will be planned at a later date.
