Ardean Tilford Stevens, 94 of Rochester, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, September 13, 2019, at Cottagewood Senior Communities.

Ardean was born on July 27, 1925, in Hayfield, Minnesota, to Nordean and Lena (Jorgenson) Stevens. He went to Hayfield country school, and on February 19, 1949, he married the love of his life, Frances Cooper. The couple moved to Charles City, Iowa, where Ardean worked at Oliver Tractor. Following the birth of their son, Randy, the family moved to Rochester in 1953. Ardean then began his career with Crenlo, Inc., retiring after over 40 years of service. Ardean loved to go fishing and spent many enjoyable summers on the family boat in Wabasha. He spent many hours with family and friends on the water, and in later years, he would often be seen sitting outside their home in SE Rochester with Frances in their boat-chairs happily greeting those who passed by. He had many grandchildren, many of whom he cared for while their parents worked. He deeply loved each and everyone of his family members. Faith was important to Ardean. He was proud to be a long-standing member of Bethel Lutheran Church in Rochester since they arrived. He served as an usher for many years. In his retirement, he enjoyed meeting up for breakfast at Grandma's Kitchen with his fellow retired coworkers.

He is survived by his children Randy (Nancy) Stevens of Lake City, Karen (John) McNamara of Rochester, Kathy (Tod) Rogers of Rochester; grandchildren Melissa, Jessica, Jennifer, Amanda, Katrina, Jake, Josh; great grandchildren Isabella, Justin, Matthew, Keegan, Sophia and Oliver.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Frances, and two brothers Menford and Gerald.

A special thank you is extended to the staff of Cottagewood Senior Communities (Cottage 3), for all the care and compassion they provided Ardean over the years.

The Funeral Service for Ardean will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church with Pastor Norm Wahl officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the West St. Olaf Church Cemetery near Hayfield, MN.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Bethel Lutheran Church of Rochester.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com