Barry Benjamin, 43, Owatonna

Barry Dale Benjamin, age 43, of Owatonna, passed away on April 25, 2026. Born April 23, 1983, in Minneapolis, Barry was a lifelong resident of Owatonna and a 2001 graduate of Owatonna High School. He proudly served as the goalie during the inaugural season of the OHS Varsity Soccer Team and later attended Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Barry truly lived his dream as the owner of Happy Tails Pet Store, where he built lasting friendships with customers and the community. He took great pride in his work and his involvement with the Steele County Free Fair, especially at the Great Outdoors Center. He appreciated the networking opportunities and connections he gained as a member of the Owatonna Chamber of Commerce.

Above all, Barry cherished time with his son, Dexter, affectionately known as his “Little Man.” The two were inseparable best friends who shared a love of fishing, go-cart riding, and running RC cars together.

Barry is survived by his son, Dexter Benjamin of Owatonna; his parents, Vicky (Nielsen) Deering and Steve Deering of Northfield, and Dale and Sheri Benjamin of Owatonna; his brother, Brian (Melanie) Benjamin of Annandale; his niece, Allison Benjamin; his step-siblings, Tim Talbert Jr. of Medford and Angela Tysdale of Pequot Lakes; step-nieces and step-nephews: Macy, Mya and Molly Talbert, Sofia and Clayton Tysdale. He is also survived by many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Dennis and Wanda Benjamin, and his maternal grandparents, Earl and Shirley Nielsen, all of Gilmore City, Iowa.

Friends may greet the family on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Great Outdoors Center at the Steele County Free Fairgrounds, 1525 S. Cedar Ave., Owatonna.

For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.