Jason Michael Fossum passed away Friday afternoon, September 18 2026 due to Glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He was diagnosed on Mothers Day 2026 and passed peacefully surrounded by family on the family farm in Eyota, MN.

Jason was born on May 6, 1979 at Methodist Hospital in Rochester, MN to Carol and Harvey Fossum. He began his childhood in Goodhue, MN surrounded by many childhood friends. His family moved to Kenyon, MN in 4th grade. He graduated from Kenyon/Wanimingo in 1997. He went on to attend Winona State University (The Harvard of the Midwest). He served in Student Government as a Student Representative, Vice President of the Student Association, and was Student Senate President his senior year. While at Winona State University he received the Presidential Award in Honor of Distinguished Public Service and Enduring Leadership. This began his 29 year career in Minnesota Republican Politics, with his current title being Republican Chief of Staff. He didn't miss a Sini Die in 20 years. Through the years many co-workers became his life long friends and family. Jason also received recognition for his work with the MN Senate Higher Education Community resulting in years of workforce development scholarship programing. He was awarded a Proclamation by the Governor for his outstanding service.

He was instrumental in many campaigns, many of which are Senate members today. Jason has been described as “all in” when it comes to his job. He has been described by coworkers as the mental health office at the capital and gave many their first jobs that changed their lives. He was described as everyone's friend. Jason enjoyed spending time with his family especially his niece and nephew, Rylie and Hank who he described as "his kids”. Jason enjoyed sports, golfing, and horse racing. His approach to life came into his motto “One day at a time Lord, One day at a time.”

Jason was honored by a recent bonding bill allocating 1.5 million dollars to Winona State University to create a space for students to discuss their political studies. This space will be called the Jason Fossum Legislate Engagement Center in honor of his legacy and his love for the Harvard of the Midwest.

The Republican Caucus and friends came together this summer for Fawesome Fest to support, encourage, and honor him for the journey ahead.

Jason is survived by many friends, too many to count. Parents Carol and Harvey Fossum, brother Aaron (Maggie) Fossum of Byron, MN with their children Rylie and Hank Fossum. He is preceded in death by his Paternal Grandparents Reuben and Erma Fossum of Wanamingo, MN and Maternal Grandparents David and Lorraine Bush of Eyota, MN.

His family would like to show deep Gratitude to Mayo Clinic Hospice for their great care, Cornerstone Care, and the Eyota Ambulance and Fire Department.

A Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Friday, September 25, 2026 at The River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. until the service. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery in Eyota, MN.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackfuneralhome.com.