Audrey Jean (Johnson) Ausen
MARSHALL–Audrey Jean (Johnson) Ausen of Prior Lake, MN, formerly of Marshall, passed away on November 8, 2025. She was born February 18, 1924, in Balaton to Ervy and Edna Johnson. Audrey grew up in Marshall, where she was in the 1942 graduating class of Marshall High School. She was a lifelong member of First Lutheran Church. It was there, during her 8th grade confirmation class, that she met Layton “Late” Ausen. They married on Oct. 6, 1944 and shared more than 61 years together.
Audrey and Late raised their seven children in Marshall. She was the mom and grandma who could sew absolutely anything–clothes, costumes, beautiful quilts, and countless little things only she know how to fix. Over the years, Audrey faced the heartbreaking loss of some of her children and loved ones, finding quiet strength in her remaining family.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Les; her late husband, Late; daughters, Jane Reinke and Mary Vandeputte; her son, Ray; sons-in-law, Ron Reinke and Fran Vandeputte; daughter-in-law, Mary Kay (Roy) Ausen. Audrey leaves behind her sons, Owen (Jane), Jerry, and Dale (Michele); her daughter Sally (Gary); and a large crew of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, many of whom joyfully called her “Great”.
A private celebration of Audrey’s life will take place on December 4th, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 7110 France Ave. South, Edina, MN, 55435. A private family internment will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.
Forever love for Mom, Grandma, and Great.