Virginia Adeline Tovson of Owatonna passed away peacefully Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019, at Owatonna Homestead Hospice House.

Funeral services are set for 11 a.m. Monday at Bethel Church in Owatonna. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Monday at the church. Interment will be at Brase Cemetery in Meriden Township.

Virginia was born April 11, 1938, in Owatonna, the daughter of Ewald H. and Frieda (Herget) Dolgner. She grew up on her parents’ family farm in Steele County. She attended country school and then later graduated from Owatonna High School.

On May 31, 1964, Virginia married Luverne Tovson at St. John’s American Lutheran Church in Owatonna. Together, Virginia and Luverne raised registered Palomino horses on their farm near Manchester. In the 1970s they became active in the Wonder Life Program, promoting organic planting and raising of animals. They sold their farm in 1979, moving to a homestead in Lemond Township once owned by Virginia’s ancestors.

Virginia, along with her husband, lived a life of service to friends, neighbors and the community. She enjoyed horseback riding, reading, woodworking, gardening and attending church events. She taught Sunday school for a number of years and enjoyed sharing God’s word with children. She had a passion for the outdoors, farm life and caring for her dogs, chickens, horses and cattle. For a time, Virginia worked for a phone referral service, providing compassion and empathy for others needing support. She also worked part time for Wintergreen and Fuller Brush Co. in Albert Lea.

Virginia is survived by her husband, Luverne; sisters Karen Sarazine and Yvonne Dolgner, all of Owatonna; and several nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by parents Ewald and Frida Dolgner; brother, Richard Dolgner; and sister-in-law, Beverly Hompe.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Owatonna Homestead Hospice House for their kindness and care of Virginia. 

Memorials can be sent to Homestead Hospice House or Heifer International. Condolences may be expressed at www.brick-megerfuneralhome.com.