Dena Chheang

life story

A loving mother and true survivor!

Obituary for Dena Chheang

Dena Chheang (Born 7/6/1963 and Deceased 12/23/2024), a beloved mother, friend, and pillar of resilience, passed away at the age of 61 years old surrounded by love and care. She is survived by her two sons, Lynn and Maly Chheang, and her grandchildren Jackson, Layla + Corbett and Stevie who carry forward her legacy of strength and resilience.

Dena was born in Cambodia and endured unimaginable loss during the genocide that claimed her entire family leaving her to be on her own since age 12 surviving in the jungles and refugee camps. In the face of tragedy, she rose with remarkable courage and resourcefulness, finding hope in a new beginning when she arrived in Faribault, Minnesota, in 1984 through a sponsorship program. Over the years, Dena built a life filled with determination, purpose and community. She spent 12 years in Faribault before moving to Wichita, Kansas, then Grafton, Wisconsin, and later to Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, where she lived and worked for six years before settling in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Dena had a zest for life that was as contagious as her laughter. She was known for her remarkable hospitality, often welcoming others into her home with delicious meals and an open heart. She cherished moments spent fishing, bird-watching, and visiting places like Lake City and Wabasha where she could marvel at eagles in flight. Her love for music and her joy in socializing with friends reflected her deep appreciation for life and connection.

Dena will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and ability to bring people together. Her legacy lives on in her sons, Lynn and Maly, and in the countless lives she touched through her kindness, generosity, and laughter.

A celebration of Dena’s life will be held at Benedictine Living in Owatonna, MN on Sunday, March 2nd from 10am to 12pm.

Dena’s journey, marked by resilience, love, and an unwavering spirit, serves as an inspiration to all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

memorial service

Memorial Event Remembering Dena Chheang

March 2, 2025

Benedictine Living Community-Owatonna 2255 30th St NW, Owatonna, MN 55060, USA

The chapel within Benedictine Living in Owatonna is where the memorial will be held. There will be photo boards of Dena for viewing and time to visit with family members and guests. Light food will be available (cocktail sandwiches, veggies, fruit, and chips). This is an open house with no formal service. Stop in for a quick visit or stay for the entire time. There is not a burial as Dena was cremated and the remains will be kept by her son's.