Service Information
Brenda K. Miller, age 57, of Penn Township, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2020, at her home in Penn Township.
Funeral Service will be held Saturday, June 13, 2020, at 1:00 P.M., at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Brownton, Minnesota, with interment following in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Brownton. Fellowship luncheon will be held at the Brownton City Park.
Visitation will be held Friday, June 12, 2020, from 4:00 – 8:00 P.M. and will continue Saturday, one hour prior to the service, ALL AT CHURCH.
Social distancing guidelines will be followed with limited seating in church – the service will be broadcast live on the church’s facebook page and will be projected in the church parking lot, please bring lawn chairs to plan accordingly. The family invites everyone to a luncheon at the Brownton city park after the service.
Obituary
Brenda Kay Miller was born on March 22, 1963, in Rochester, Minnesota. She was the daughter of Dale and JoAnn (Williams) Tiegen. Brenda was baptized as an infant on April 28, 1963, and was later confirmed in her faith as a youth on May 14, 1978, both at West St. Olaf Church in Hayfield, Minnesota. She received her education in Hayfield, and was a graduate of the Hayfield High School Class of 1981. Brenda continued her education at the University of Minnesota Technical College in Waseca, Minnesota. Following graduation, she worked as a Veterinary Technician in the Veterinarian Research Department at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester.
On August 17, 1991, Brenda was united in marriage to Kevin Miller at West St. Olaf Church in Oslo, Minnesota. This marriage was blessed with three children, Logan, Lindsay, and Lane. Brenda and Kevin made their home in Penn Township, rural Brownton, Minnesota and shared 28 years of marriage.
Brenda was employed as a Medical Lab Technician at Glencoe Regional Health in the Stewart Clinic for 27 years.
Brenda was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Brownton where she was active as a Sunday School Teacher. She was a member of the McLeod West School Board and the GFW School Board where she was also an after prom volunteer at both schools. She was an avid Brownton Community volunteer, 4H Leader and volunteer, and an FFA Coach.
Brenda enjoyed camping, water skiing, biking, and hiking. She loved animals, going on family vacations, and was very proud of her Norwegian heritage and traditions. Brenda especially enjoyed and cherished the time spent with her family and friends.
Brenda was diagnosed with sporadic Creutzfeldt - Jakob disease in October of 2019. After fighting a courageous battle, she passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2020, at her home in Penn Township, at the age of 57 years.
Blessed be her memory.
Brenda is survived by her:
Husband, Kevin Miller of Penn Township, MN;
Children, Logan, Lindsay, and Lane Miller of Penn Township, MN;
Mother, JoAnn Tiegen of Hayfield, MN;
Brothers, Gregg Tiegen and his wife, Gwenda, of Byron, MN,
Eric Tiegen and his wife, Lori, of Stacy, MN;
Brothers and Sisters-In-Law, Mark Miller and his wife, Corina, of Prior Lake, MN,
Nancy Sweely and her husband, David, of Stewart, MN;
Nieces and Nephews, Gunnar Tiegen, Greta Tiegen, Greer Tiegen, Brittany Tiegen, Gabrielle Tiegen,
Jacob Tiegen, Rebecca Lillemon and her husband, Jordan, Tyler Miller, Miranda Sweely, Victoria Sweely, and Savanna Sweely;
Mother-in-law, Faye Miller of Brownton, MN;
Many other relatives and friends.
Brenda is preceded in death by her Father, Dale Tiegen; Brother, Jason Tiegen; and Father-in-law, Herman Miller.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) is a rare, fatal brain disorder within a group of illnesses called prion diseases. The incidence of CJD cases worldwide is one to two cases, per million individuals per year. In the United States this statistic translates to nearly 500 new cases per year. Eighty-five percent of CJD cases are sporadic, meaning there is no known cause at present.
The family invites everyone to a fellowship luncheon at the Brownton City Park immediately following the committal service.
Connie Schaufler says
My deepest sympathies to Brenda’s family. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.
Stephanie Baumgarten says
Kevin and kids,
I am heartbroken for you all. Brenda will forever be loved and missed!!! You all have my most heartfelt sympathy!!! I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers!! I am so very sorry for your loss!!!
Rosan Hedtke says
Kevin & family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Brenda was a great person and so much fun to be with. She will be missed dearly.
My deepest sympathy
Rosan Hedtke
Pat Twait says
I am so saddened to hear about Brenda. I babysat her when she was just a few months old. Dale would drop her off at our house in Rochester, before going to work at Sears. Jo was working at IBM and went to work earlier. Brenda and her brothers were playmates and friends with our 4 boys.
Our families had many years together of fun memories.
Sending our love and sympathy to her family.
Pat and Denny Twait. Kasilof Alaska
Dawn Wolter says
Our sincere sympathy to the entire Miller family! Brenda will be dearly missed by many, but the resurrection promises are hers! We will see her again. –Bob and Dawn
Julie Fox , Waseca College Friend says
So hard to believe. But many good memories of our Waseca College days that we all have to treasure during these challenging times.
Thanks for sharing a great person. Can still hear her laugh.
Betty and Frank Moon says
To Brenda’s Family,
We are deeply saddened to learn of Brenda’s death. Hugs to you! Betty and Frank Moon
Deborah Messner says
Our heartfelt sympathy is with the Miller family at this time of loss. Brenda was such a sweet lady and will be deeply missed! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jeff & Deb Messner
Brenda K Gronseth ? says
Loved you!
Greg Thoe says
I am so surprised and sorry to hear of this. I would like to give all of Brenda’s family and friends condolences.
Brenda was such a great girl. I am so sad to see her go. I have a lot of fond memories of her from when we were younger hanging around with our families.
God has her now and will take the very best care of her that he can give.
Sending all of our love to all of you at this time terrible time of sorrow.
Greg & Lisa Thoe
Debbie Woodwick says
I will be coming to visitation Fri
Sheryl Timm-Kluesner says
Kevin and family,
My deepest condolences. May you continue to find comfort in His Resurrection.
Stacie and Todd Lindell says
Kevin and Family, Gods Strength and Peace at this Devastating time ????
Heidi Goemann says
Dear Kevin and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Praying that memories of happier times will help you through these sad days.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Lori (Converse) Farlinger says
Sending my deepest sympathy to Brenda’s family. She was such a great classmate and a great person! It’s hard to believe she is gone and will be missed! She is in heaven now, and we will meet again. God Bless You Brenda and Rest In Peace!
Lori (Converse) Farlinger says
Sending my deepest sympathy to Brenda’s family. She was such a great classmate and a great person! It’s hard to believe she is gone and will be missed! She is in heaven now, and we will meet again. God Bless You Brenda and Rest In Peace!
Lisa Gerhart says
So saddened to hear about Brenda.
Always upbeat and smiling…one of the nicest person I’ve known.
Prayers and Deepest sympathy to all of Brenda’ s family.
Steve and Jan Notch says
Kevin, you and your family have our deepest sympathy. Never will forget all the good times we had in Waseca and at your wedding. May God give you and your family the strength and peace that Brenda is in good hands and will be taking care of you from above.
Kimberle Bergman says
Kevin & family;
My sincere condolences..I am so sorry to hear this. Brenda was such a person full of joy & laughter. May your strength guide you forward.
Kimberle (Schwarze) Bergman
Tonya Christensen says
Kevin and family,
I used to work with Brenda at Glencoe and Stewart. I’m sending my deepest condolences to you and your family. Brenda was a kind-hearted, intelligent, caring, and wonderful person. She loved you all so very much! She had a terrific and memorable laugh that was contagious. She is now in the Lord’s hands and your guardian angel. Prayers.
George Stoller says
We were so surprised and saddened to hear about Brenda. May the Lord hold you all close as you grieve her passing.
George and Nyla
Darcy Cole says
Dear Miller Family,
I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. Brenda was an amazing woman. Many in our 4-H family knew Brenda well and appreciated her kindness and contributions to our program. She will be greatly missed and our hearts ache for all of you.
Janet Hall says
Kevin and family,
Sending thoughts, prayers, deepest sympathies and hugs. Brenda was an amazing woman and I loved my time working with her at Stewart, as a animal lover as well, we had much to chat about. She will forever missed and loved. She was always smiling and I will miss her phone calls and messages.
Connie (Alsleben) Byerly says
Kevin & Family;
My sincere condolences. So sorry to hear of Brenda’s passing. May you find comfort in family & friends near & far to help you through this time. Praying GOD will guide you & give you strength.
Connie (Alsleben) Byerly says
Kevin & Family;
My sincere condolences. So sorry to hear of Brenda’s passing. May you find comfort in family & friends near & far to help you through this time. Praying GOD will guide you & give you strength.
Brett Linbo says
Dear Kevin and entire miller and Tiegen family. Blessed be those who encountered Brenda’s wondeful spirit. For it was truly glorious! Let her memories carry you through. God’s peace!
Love to all
Brett, Caliann & Family
Pam Collins says
Sorry for your loss Brenda was very kind and helpful she was so great with us, we meet by getting rabbits for our grandson at the fair to bring home to Lincoln Nebraska, we will pray for comfort for the family in their loss of a great lady.
Tim, Darcy Werner and Family says
With sincere condolences to Brenda’s husband Kevin, their children along with all their families during this sadness of Brenda’s passing. Prayers that all the beautiful memories of her help to give you strength and peace as you move forward. She was an amazing person who will be greatly missed. God Bless You Brenda and your families .
Judy Markgraf says
Mary and all of Brenda’s family. So sorry for your loss. Remembering always of Christ’s promise of eternal life. Praying that He will give you the peace of God knowing that you are loved by many. Praying for you. Amen
Chuck Nelson says
Kevin and family. So shocked and sorry to hear about Brenda. Such an amazing person and many great memories at Waseca. You and your family are in Lisa’s and my prayers.
LuAnn Alsleben says
Dear Kevin & Family, I am so very sorry for your loss of Brenda. Sending my deepest sympathy & hope that you can find the strength & comfort with family & friends as you go through this very difficult time in life.
Mark & Becky Streich says
Our thoughts and prayers to the Miller family. Brenda will be remembered for her laugh and kind heart. May she Rest In Peace. Mark and Becky Streich & Family
Darlene and Leroy Karg says
Our sympathy to Brenda’s family. Brenda was always a Ray of Sunshine. We will miss her contagious laugh
Leroy and Darlene Karg says
Our sympathy to Brenda’s family. She was a Ray of Sunshine. We will miss her and her contagious laugh
Katie (Genz) Feltmann says
Thinking of you during this difficult time. Her smile and laugh were contagious. She will be missed ?? Gods Blessings to all of you!
Arlene Bjornson says
Dear Family,
You have our deepest sympathy in the loss of Brenda. She was a wonderful person and we are so sorry for your loss. May it help to comfort you that others share your sorrow.
Love, Arlene Bjornson and Kevin Bjornson
Carrie Schoenwetter Spitzack says
I am so very sad for all of Brenda’s family. We hung out a lot as kids and into high school as well. We got reconnected a couple summers ago when they camped in Crosslake when they paid me a visit. First time I met her husband and 2 of their kids. Such a neat family and I can’t imagine the loss you’re feeling. God’s peace be with you all.
Jean and Ralph Fairchild says
We are so sorry for your loss. Brenda was a positive person who always went above and beyond what was needed. I had fun working with her on after prom stuff.
Linda Simonson says
Dear Kevin, family and friends,
My deepest sympathies to all of you. My husband’s and Brenda’s families were friends and neighbors in the Hayfield area. We enjoyed connecting with Millers at wrestling and when Kevin was receiving cancer treatments, we saw her in the clinic. If he had labs, he would ask if she could visit us in the infusion lab. I pray for God’s comfort and strength for you.
Linda Simonson
Lori Stevermer says
So many great memories of our times at UMW. Her infectious laugh and love for life will be some of the most treasured memories.
Mary Knippling says
To our Dearest Farmer Joe.
What saddness this is for you and your family. I’m so glad you got a little break with us before the final battle. We continue to keep you all close in my prayers.
Mary Knippling and the Krew
Shelly Ogroske says
Kevin & Family,
I am shocked and saddened to hear about Brenda’s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers as you mourn the loss of your wife and mother. Cherish all the memories as your hearts heal from this loss. She will be your ANGEL watching over all of you from heaven forever. Hugs to all!
Shelly (Reed) & Dale O’Groske
Colleen Otto says
Kevin and family,
Sending thoughts, prayers, deepest sympathies and hugs. Brenda was an amazing woman and I loved every time I got to work with her at Glencoe Clinic. She will forever missed.
Colleen Otto
John & Joleen Elder says
Dear Kevin, Logan, Lindsay and Lane:
What a blessing you all are to our community. You are all so friendly and engaging. You have our deepest sympathy in the passing of your wife and mom. She always had a ready smile and friendly conversation. May God continue to carry you through this journey of deep sadness and loss.
Our prayers are with you,
John, Joleen, EmmaJo, Maddy and Evan Elder and Braden and McKenzie Knobloch
Kris (Urban) Farenbaugh says
Kevin and family
You are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
I worked with Brenda in the Glencoe Clinic.
We were both pregnant at the same time and due in July of 1994.
Brenda was such a joy to work with.
She will be missed.
Mary Brunner says
I remember Brenda and Kevin being the cool athletic cousins waterskiing at Grandma’s house. Brenda could always light up a room.
Sending my deepest condolences for Brenda’s passing. I wish you comfort today and always.
Scoot Gathje says
Kevin remember Brendas infectious smile and zeal for life. Hard worker happy life.
Rodney Braun, Kristine Larson-Braun says
Kevin and Family,
Our deepest condolences on your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
June Grimm says
Kevin and family: Brenda’s smile and kind heart is a treasure that will be missed, Prayers to you all during this time.
Twyla G Waller says
Our deepest sympathies. Thoughts and prayers to you Kevin, and all your Families.
Twyla and Chuck
Kim Schimmelpfennig says
Kevin and family, you have my heartfelt sympathy during this difficult time. Cherish the memories and know that she is at peace. God bless your family.
Debra Podratz says
Please accept our smpathy We were so sorry to hear about Brenda . She was one of a kind… she brought a ray of sunshine where ever she would go. She was kind.. caring.. loving.. fun..a very good friend. I loved getting to know her while working with her for so many years She will truly be missed by everyone that knew her.. cared about her and loved her. Gods blessings to her family through this difficult time. Larry and Debbie Podratz
Larry & Barbara (Bussler) Bumgardner says
Kevin, Logan, Lindsay, Lane and entire family,
You have been in our prayers since learning of Brenda’s illness and our hearts ache for you! We send our deepest sympathies and know that we are praying that Our Heavenly Father is holding you close to Himself during these days and the ones to come. Sending you love, peace and comfort.
Sheryl M Bartholow says
I’m so sorry for your loss! I loved my time working with Brenda at the Stewart Clinic, she was the sweetest lady! I will always remember her fondly!
Connie Timm says
Kevin, Logan, Lindsay, and Lane
My sympathies and prayers to you all Brenda touched everyone she met with her kindness, smile and laugh. I enjoyed getting to know her better when I worked at the Stewart clinic with her. Cherish those precious memories
Ruth Ann Buck says
My sympathies to the Miller family, We were on a Wendinger bus trip to Washington DC and your family joined us for the DC part of the trip, I remember your family made the most of your time there and you all looked like you were having a good time. When ever I saw you at a Polzin event it reminded me of that trip. Glad you did so many family things you will have lots of good memories to share. Prayers for your family.
Theresa (Brelje) Erickson says
Kevin & family,
Sending thoughts, prayers, and my deepest sympathy in the loss of Brenda. May you find comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Kathy Wenninger says
Dearest Kevin ,Logan, Lindsey,and Lane. Our deepest sympathys to you as you have said good bye for a season to Brenda…What a gift that we have knowing we will be together again one day. It has been such a joy reflecting on all of the wonderful times spent sitting together at wrestling matches and tournaments and working together at wrestling events. Brenda’s infectious smile,laugh and her contagious energy was a treasured gift to be apart of. We pray that you feel the Lord Jesus arms wrapped around you tenderly . Our continued support and prayers. .Love, Glenn and Kathy and family Wenninger
Mary Spoden says
Dear Kevin, Logan, Lindsey and Lane. Our deep sadness for you on saying goodbye to Brenda, I worked with Brenda at the Stewart Clinic and considered her my Sister Friend. Brenda touched so many lives with her kindness, humor and energy. It was such a pleasure going to work knowing she was there. I loved Brenda and will always keep your family and her in my prayers. Love, Chuck and Mary Spoden
Marcia Prokopec says
I visited the Stewart clinic often as a sales rep and had so much fun visiting with Brenda. Heard all about her family and the farm. She was so proud of her family, always had a positive, happy attitude and I considered her my friend. Heaven has gained an angel. Blessings to Brenda’s family and friends.
Arnold and Miriam Gennrich says
We knew her best as the lab tech at the Stewart Clinic.She was always in a good mood and always left us feeling good – even after the blood draw! She was good and will be greatly missed.
Dee Ann Larson, college friend from UMW says
So sorry to learn of Brenda’s passing. She was always a ray of sunshine, so caring and had the best laugh! I will remember her fondly.