OSAGE — Eugene “Gene” Richard Myhre, 92, of Osage, a longtime farmer whose life was shaped by faith, family, hard work and the simple pleasures of rural living, died peacefully on May 23, 2026, at Mitchell County Regional Health Center with family by his side.
Myhre was born June 6, 1933, at home along the Minnesota-Iowa border. He grew up on a small family farm with his parents and sisters, learning the value of responsibility and steady work at an early age.
He attended Lyle High School, where he was active in football, basketball and baseball, and graduated with the Class of 1951.
A Luther League meeting at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Toeterville changed the course of his life. There, he met Audrey Bruggeman, who would become his wife on September 11, 1955. Last fall, the couple celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary, a milestone that reflected a lifetime of devotion and partnership.
Gene and Audrey began their married life on an acreage near Toeterville. While Gene worked nights at the Oliver plant in Charles City, he also built the couple’s small farm operation. Their family grew there with the births of their children, Kevin and Pam.
In 1962, the family moved to an acreage south of Lyle, where Gene expanded his dairy herd and crop operation. He later served for many years as president of the Stacyville Dairy Board, earning respect from fellow dairy farmers for his leadership and integrity.
Gene enjoyed fishing, hunting and warm summer evenings listening to the Minnesota Twins on the radio. He also enjoyed a cold Hamm’s beer and the everyday comforts of country life.
At age 65, Gene and Audrey purchased an acreage west of Mona. There, Gene found joy in gardening, raising pumpkins for his great-grandchildren and watching wildlife pass through the yard. He also developed a love for woodworking, creating pieces that became family treasures.
In 2020, Gene and Audrey moved to Osage, where they continued to enjoy visits from family and friends.
Gene is survived by his wife, Audrey; his children, Kevin Myhre and Pam Perkins; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and friends.
A funeral service was held Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Lyle, Minnesota, with burial at Woodbury Cemetery in Lyle.
Hoff Celebrations – Champion Chapel of Osage is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
If you would like an obituary, remembrance or tribute story published in NIT, please email the details to NORTHIOWATODAY@GMAIL.COM. This is a free service.