Butch Hennen

Darrell “Butch” Mathias Hennen, age 85 of Redwood Falls, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Cedar Heart Homes in Franklin, following a battle with cancer. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at St. Catherine Catholic Church in Redwood Falls with a livestream available on the church’s YouTube page (youtube.com/@LOWAFC). Visitation will be held 9:00-11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the church. Burial is in St. John Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Morton. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Cedar Heart Homes (551 E. 2^nd St., Franklin, MN 55333) or American Cancer Society.

Darrell “Butch” Mathias Hennen was born May 17, 1940 in Beaver Falls Township, Renville County, Minnesota to Elmer and Margaret (Haus) Hennen. Butch was a lifelong member of St. John Catholic Church in Morton, joining St. Catherine’s Catholic Church upon his move to Redwood Falls. His faith was of utmost importance, and he made sure to attend mass every weekend. On February 11, 1961, Butch was united in marriage to Sharon Kay Ruhland at St. John Catholic Church in Morton. Together, they shared 51 wonderful years. Butch spent his working years farming with his dad. Following his retirement, he enjoyed helping farmers with their fall harvest and delivering vehicles for Kohls Weelborg Ford. One of the most meaningful moments in his life came on his birthday, when he received the gift of a heart transplant. That was 22 years ago, and he amazed his doctors by living far beyond expectations with his new heart. Butch loved his daily routine, including morning coffee with friends at McDonald’s and afternoon coffee at Pizza Ranch. Though he wasn’t an avid fisherman, he cherished joining his sons, sons-in-law and friends on fishing trips to the Rainy River. He will be remembered for his strong faith, simple joys, and deep love for his family and friends.

Butch is survived by his children: Scott (Judy) of Waconia, John (Lisa) of Minong, WI, Greg (Mary) of Whitefish, MT, Jim of Eagle Lake, Lori (Chris) Hacker of Franklin, and Melissa (John) Murphy of Springfield, IL; grandchildren: Jaci (Pete) Sparby, Michael & Nick Hennen, Dani (Tyler) Westling & Sean Hennen, Ryan (Margaret) & Mitchell (Angie) Hennen, Jordan (Jacob) Pettis & Megan (Matthew) Miller, Amelia (Taylor), Claire, Erin, Finn & Matthew Murphy; great grandchildren: Mason & Brenna Westling, Nora & Theo Sparby, and Arlo & Theo Hennen; sister Bonnie (John) Reabe of Kansas City, MO; and brother-in-law John O’Neil of Norwood Young America. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Sharon, and sister Betty O’Neil.

Butch’s family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Redwood Falls Hospice and Cedar Heart Homes for the kindness and care they provided.