our history

Our Story

The Dan Macken Company was founded December, 1909 by Dan Macken; born to Irish Immigrant farmers in Marion Township MN in 1877. Mr. Macken graduated from the College of St. Thomas in St. Paul, and later served an embalming apprenticeship in Willwerscheid Mortuary in St. Paul. He began working for the FJ Paine Funeral & Furniture Co in Rochester – opening his own firm 9 months later. 



The Dan Macken Company included a furniture store and was located at 325 South Broadway, NW corner. Later the business was moved to 220 First Avenue SW, where the furniture store was discontinued. China Hall later occupied this building. Dan Macken’s siblings Michael and Cyril both worked for Dan during these years.

In August of 1931, the business bought and moved to the Schuster Brewery family home at 223 Fourth Street SW. The Dan Macken Company name eventually was changed to Macken Funeral Home and run solely by Dan Macken. His son Daniel D. Macken joined the firm after returning from military service in 1950 and graduating from the U of MN Mortuary Science program. Daniel D. built at the current location of 1105 12th Street SE, in 1962. His father, Dan Macken passed away in 1963.

In 1977, Daniel K. Macken and Timothy Macken joined their father after graduating from the U of MN Mortuary Science Program. The brothers are responsible for building additions and adding a crematory at the 11th Ave SE location, and in 2010, built the River Park Chapel that resides on the current Macken Funeral Home campus. Dolores Macken, spouse to Dan D., worked in the office until they both retired in 1992. Ann Macken Nigon (retired in 2017) and Mary Macken Garry have acted as office administrators since the 1990’s. Daniel K. retired in 2017, and Timothy in 2019.  Peter Macken, fourth-generation funeral director, joined the firm in 2006 after graduating from the U of MN Mortuary Science Program and will continue the proud tradition of taking the Macken Funeral Home into the future, along with his partner, Chris Bronte, who joined the firm in 2004.

It has been a privilege for the Macken Funeral Home to serve the Rochester community since 1909. Our dedicated service will continue into the future with the same family-driven values passed down to us from our Founder, Dan Macken.

Why Choose Macken Funeral Home

At Macken Funeral Home, we believe every life deserves to be honored with care, dignity, and respect for all faiths. During one of life’s most difficult moments, our role is to guide, support, and listen—so families can focus on what matters most.
What sets us apart:

Deep Roots in the Rochester Community

We are proud to serve Rochester and the surrounding area with a strong commitment to our neighbors. We understand the traditions, values, and needs of the families we serve, because this is our community too. Macken has been part of the Rochester community since 1909.

Compassionate, Personal Guidance

No two lives are the same, and no service should be either. We take the time to listen and help families create meaningful services that reflect their loved one’s life, values, and wishes—whether traditional, contemporary, or something uniquely personal.

Experienced, Professional Care

Our team brings knowledge, professionalism, and attention to detail to every aspect of the funeral process. From planning and coordination to after-care support, families can trust that every detail will be handled with respect and precision. We would like to add something to the fact that the directors bring over 120 years of combined experience.

Support Before, During, and After

Our care doesn’t end when services conclude. We are here to answer questions, offer resources, and provide ongoing support—whether you are planning ahead or navigating a recent loss.

A Commitment to Honoring Life

Above all, we are dedicated to helping families remember, celebrate, and honor life in a way that feels right for them.