Roger Dennis Stenhoff, 81, Passes Away in Minnesota

Longtime Spring Grove resident and Navy veteran dies from dementia complications

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Roger Dennis Stenhoff, an 81-year-old resident of Spring Grove, Minnesota, passed away on March 4, 2026, at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Preston. Stenhoff, a U.S. Navy veteran who served from 1964 to 1968, had been living with dementia and died from complications related to the condition.

Why it matters

Stenhoff's passing marks the loss of a longtime community member in Spring Grove, where he was involved in various local organizations and activities over the decades. His life story also highlights the challenges faced by veterans and their families when dealing with dementia and other age-related health issues.

The details

Stenhoff was born in Minneapolis in 1944 and served as a radio operator aboard the USS Nicholas during the Vietnam War, receiving several military honors. After his service, he attended St. Cloud State University, where he met his wife Karen. The couple moved to a 40-acre farm along Bee Creek and raised three daughters, with Stenhoff working as a residential remodeling contractor and carpenter in the community.

  • Stenhoff was born on March 6, 1944 in Minneapolis.
  • He served in the U.S. Navy from 1964 to 1968.
  • Stenhoff and his wife Karen were married on May 12, 1973.
  • Stenhoff passed away on March 4, 2026 at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Preston.
  • A celebration of life will be held for Stenhoff in the summer of 2026.

The players

Roger Dennis Stenhoff

An 81-year-old resident of Spring Grove, Minnesota who served in the U.S. Navy and worked as a residential remodeling contractor and carpenter in the community.

Karen Ann Schultz

Stenhoff's wife of 53 years, whom he met while attending St. Cloud State University.

Kelly, Andrea (Travis Pearson), and Emily (Spencer Strunic)

Stenhoff's three daughters.

Reese, Lennox, Vivian, Sage, Oliver and Eleanor

Stenhoff's six grandchildren.

Minnesota Veterans Home - Preston

The long-term care facility where Stenhoff spent the last two years of his life surrounded by love.

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What’s next

A celebration of life will be held for Roger Dennis Stenhoff in the summer of 2026.

The takeaway

Roger Stenhoff's life and service to his country, community, and family serve as a testament to the enduring values of hard work, civic engagement, and devotion to loved ones, even in the face of the challenges posed by dementia in his later years.