Nancy Hedger

Nancy Susan Hedger, 87, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away on September 11, 2026.

Nancy was born on February 16, 1939, to parents Paul and Johnieveve (Hanson) Helseth in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She grew up in Minneapolis, graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1957 and went on to attend the University of Minnesota.

Nancy married the love of her life, Richard "Dick" Hedger, on June 15, 1963, in Minneapolis at Diamond Lake Lutheran Church.

Throughout her life, Nancy held a variety of jobs, but she especially loved her work as a tour guide at Mayowood for the Olmsted County Historical Society. She was also passionate about giving back to her community and volunteered with the River Trail Girl Scout Council, Bethel Lutheran Church, and the Rochester Flower & Garden Club. Nancy was instrumental in creating and planting the Veterans Memorial gardens in Rochester, a lasting reflection of her dedication to her community.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Richard "Dick" Hedger; her daughters, Paula (Dan) Arland of Cottage Grove, MN and Nicole (Andy) Ferguson of Rochester, MN; and her four grandchildren, Connor, Hannah, Emma, and Logan.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Johnieveve; her sister, Jan Challman; and her brother-in-law, Roger.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 19, 2026, at Bethel Lutheran Church, 810 3rd Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will be in the Bethel Church Columbarium. Memorials preferred to Bethel Lutheran Church.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Hedger family