Margaret J. Riedemann

Margaret J. Riedemann, age 79, of Stacy, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 10, 2026, leaving behind a family who adored her and countless others whose lives were brightened by her kindness, warmth, and vibrant personality.

Marge was born on October 11, 1946, in Milaca, Minnesota, to Lawrence and Lucille (Walbridge) Smekofske. While on a double date at a local dance hall, Marge met Alvin Riedemann. What began as an evening out turned into a lasting relationship, and after dating for several years, the two were married. Together, they made their home in Cambridge, Minnesota, where they raised their family and built a life filled with love and memories.

Marge had a curious mind and a lifelong desire to learn. She believed it was never too late to challenge herself or discover something new. In her 50s, she enrolled at Cambridge Community College and proudly earned her associate degree. Even in the later years of her life, she continued to seek opportunities to grow, spending time brushing up on her Spanish through Duolingo until earlier this year. Her willingness to keep learning was a wonderful reflection of her determination, independence, and zest for life.

Professionally, Marge worked as the office manager at Smith Metal Products in Center City, a job she truly loved. Her coworkers became her “second family,” and the relationships she formed there meant so much to her. She looked forward to seeing familiar faces each day, whether coworkers, customers, or the local delivery drivers who regularly stopped by her desk for a piece of candy and a quick chat. Marge had a way of making even the smallest interactions meaningful, turning everyday moments into opportunities for connection and friendship. When her health began to decline, she was saddened to retire in June 2026. Her work had been much more than a job; it was a place where she felt valued, connected, and at home.

If there was one thing Marge loved almost as much as her family, it was her Minnesota Vikings. She was an avid fan who passed her love of the team and the game down to her children, teaching them to cheer through the victories and remain loyal through the difficult seasons. Being a Vikings fan meant sticking together through good times and bad, a lesson that perhaps extended beyond football and into the way Marge lived her own life.

Above all else, Marge's family was her greatest love and proudest accomplishment. She adored her children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter, loving each of them wholeheartedly and always putting their needs before her own. Her family knew how deeply they were loved, and she found great joy in being part of their lives. She was the kind of person who showed her love through the everyday things she did, the care she gave, and the way she was always there for the people who mattered most.

Marge had a vibrant personality and a generous heart. She was kind to everyone she met, and her warmth made people feel welcome. Whether at work, among friends, or surrounded by family, she had a gift for making connections that lasted. Her life was a beautiful reminder that kindness does not have to be grand to make a lasting difference. Sometimes, it is found in a friendly conversation, a small act of generosity, a shared laugh, or simply making someone feel that they matter.

Marge leaves behind a legacy of love, perseverance, lifelong learning, and genuine connection. She will be remembered for her spirited personality, her unwavering devotion to her family, her loyalty to her beloved Vikings, and the countless ways she made life a little brighter for those around her. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she gave so freely will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Lucille Smekofske; her siblings, Mary Lou (Bill) Westphall and Donna Rahm; Alvin Riedemann; and Walter Beckman.

She will be deeply missed by her children, Jeff (Nancy) Riedemann, Melissa (Brian) Mathena, Rhonda (Joe) Findell, Kevin (Stephanie) Riedemann, and Anna (Chris) Spiers; 15 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; her siblings, John (Kathy) Smekofske, Ardie (Bob) Stowe, Rosealie Fleck, Teresa (Gene) Arkuszewski, and Chris (Glenn) Albright; brother-in-law, Bob Rahm; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the Church of Saint Peter, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest Lake, Minnesota. Visitation will be held from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on Thursday at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake, and for one hour prior to Mass at the church. Interment will follow at Isanti Union Cemetery.