Judy F. Nagel, 82, Passes Away in Minnesota

Longtime Preston resident was a devoted wife, mother, and community member.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Judy F. Nagel, a longtime resident of Preston, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, at the age of 82. Nagel was a devoted wife of 63 years to Jerry Nagel, and together they had three sons - James, John, and Jeff. Throughout her life, Nagel worked a variety of jobs while also helping on the family farm and raising her children.

Why it matters

Judy Nagel's passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit Preston community, where she and her husband Jerry built a life together over six decades. As a hardworking, family-oriented woman, Nagel's story reflects the values and lifestyle of many rural Minnesotans of her generation.

The details

Nagel was born Judy Faye McIntosh on October 10, 1943, the daughter of Chester and Grace McIntosh. She was baptized and confirmed at Washington Prairie Lutheran Church and attended school in Decorah. On August 18, 1962, she married Jerry Nagel at Washington Prairie Lutheran Church. Over the years, Nagel worked as a secretary at the Preston Law Office, Greenway Coop in Rochester, and Granger Creamery, all while helping on the family farm, cooking meals, and handling the bookkeeping.

  • Judy Nagel passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
  • A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 11 a.m.

The players

Judy F. Nagel

An 82-year-old resident of Preston, Minnesota who passed away on February 3, 2026. She was a devoted wife, mother, and community member who worked a variety of jobs while also helping on the family farm.

Jerry Nagel

Judy Nagel's husband of 63 years, with whom she had three sons - James, John, and Jeff.

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What’s next

Judy Nagel will be laid to rest at a later date in Greenleafton Cemetery following the memorial service on February 20th.

The takeaway

Judy Nagel's life exemplified the values of hard work, family, and community that have long defined rural Minnesota. Her passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit Preston community that she called home for over 80 years.