It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Olvin “Jiggs” Renken, who departed this life on February 21, 2026, in Indian Harbour Beach, FL, due to natural causes. Jiggs, at 92 years old, was a beloved figure and a lifelong resident of Stewartville, MN, until he made the move to Florida in January 2026.

Born on March 30, 1933, in Racine, MN, to Oliver and Irene (Lowrie) Renken, Jiggs was a dedicated member of his community. He attended country school in Racine and graduated from Stewartville High School in 1951. His education continued at the University of Minnesota, where he earned an agricultural degree, setting the foundation for a life filled with service and family.

A Life of Service and Commitment

Jiggs proudly served in the US Army from 1953 to 1955, stationed in France during a pivotal time in history. After returning home, he married Barbara Jean Andrews from Herman, MN, on November 19, 1955. Together, they raised four children: Jim, Vicki, Jane, and Kari, who remember him fondly for his love and commitment.

Professionally, Jiggs was a dedicated employee of AT&T in Rochester, where he began his career as a telephone lineman and worked his way up to management before retirement. His contributions to the community extended beyond work; he was a longtime member of the Stewartville Methodist Church and actively involved with the Stewartville American Legion, Masonic Lodge, Gun Club, and Junior Chamber of Commerce. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and playing pool, cherishing every moment spent with family and friends.

Legacy and Memorial Service

Jiggs and Barbara spent 23 winters as snowbirds in Melbourne Beach, FL, enjoying the warm weather and the company of fellow retirees. He is survived by one son, Jim Renken, three daughters, Vicki, Jane, and Kari, along with 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind siblings Linda Bucknell, Debby Whipple, and Randy Renken. He was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings.

A memorial service is scheduled for March 31, 2026, at the Stewartville United Methodist Church, followed by military graveside honors by the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 at Woodlawn Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends is set for March 30, 2026, from 5 to 7 PM at Griffin-Gray Funeral Home in Stewartville, with an hour of visitation prior to the service at the church. The family requests that no flowers be sent; instead, condolences and memories can be shared online at this link.

Honoring Our Veterans

Jiggs’s service as a veteran reflects the dedication shared by many who have served in the military. Currently, over 4 million US veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts are living with the impacts of their service. While fewer soldiers lost their lives in these recent wars compared to past conflicts, more than half of the returning veterans face psychological and physical challenges. The weight of these experiences can lead to tragic outcomes, including a higher suicide rate among veterans, which is notably greater than that of the general population.

The complexities of reintegration into civilian life can be overwhelming. Many veterans, like Jiggs, have bravely fought through their traumatic experiences, yet they may still struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic pain, and other invisible wounds. As we gather to remember Jiggs, we also honor the sacrifices of all veterans and the ongoing need for support and understanding in our communities. For further insights into the challenges faced by veterans, you can read more at this article.