Adrian Kay Person

Adrian Kay Person, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on January 16, 2025.

She was born on September 5, 1941, in Britton, South Dakota, to Kenneth and Jennie Dugdale. Adrian’s early years were spent moving frequently until her family eventually settled in Mankato, Minnesota, where she grew up and planted roots.

Adrian attended Wilson Elementary School and graduated from Mankato High School in 1960. In 1974, Adrian and her husband, John, opened Adrian’s Restaurant, a beloved local establishment. For 26 years, Adrian poured her heart into the restaurant, sharing her culinary talents and warm hospitality with the community. Her remarkable ability to dissect and replicate flavors turned her meals into masterpieces and her restaurant into a home away from home for many. Adrian retired in 2000, leaving behind a legacy of love and excellence in the hospitality industry. She also passed her passion for cooking to her children, teaching them the joys of creating delicious meals from a young age.

Adrian’s generosity and compassion knew no bounds. She and John opened their home to foster children while raising their own family, embodying the spirit of love and service. She also mentored employees, helping them develop skills and confidence to lead independent lives. Adrian’s big heart touched countless lives, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Adrian had a deep love for adventure and travel. She visited numerous countries and explored the world with family and friends. Her adventurous spirit led her to white water raft in Colorado, snowmobile in Montana, and embark on numerous cruises with her late husband, Mike. Adrian’s love for exploration and new experiences brought her joy and created cherished memories that her family and friends will forever treasure.

A voracious speed reader, Adrian devoured books and newspapers, staying informed and well-read throughout her life. Her love of current events and sports — particularly the Timberwolves, Lynx, and Vikings — made her an engaging conversationalist. Her sharp wit and passion for debate often led to lively discussions with family and friends, which she treasured deeply.

Adrian’s strength and resilience were hallmarks of her life. She faced profound loss with grace, including the passing of her son, Patrick, and three husbands. She often said that no mother is ever prepared to bury a child, and yet her love for her family and friends remained unwavering. Adrian’s fierce devotion and boundless love were a cornerstone for her family.

Adrian was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Jennie Dugdale; her husbands, John D. Person (1960-1999), Robert Petersen (2000-2002), and Michael J. Schneider (2004-2017); her son, Patrick T. Person; and two stepsons, Daniel Schneider and Rob Schneider.

She is survived by her sister, Joan Steinhoff; her children, Christopher Person (Sarah) and Katie Person; her grandchildren, Carter Person (Neah), Maria Brown (Landon), Alec Volkenant, Taylor Person, and Johnathon Person; her great-grandchildren, Emilia Brown, Lincoln Brown, and Crosby Person; her stepdaughter, Lisa Young (David); and her step-grandchildren, Rachel, Grant, and Ashley. Adrian’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family and the countless people whose lives she touched.

A reception and service to celebrate Adrian’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. (Service at 4:00 p.m) at Sky One Eleven in downtown Mankato, Minnesota. Friends and family are invited to gather and share stories, laughter, and love in remembrance of a remarkable woman who gave so much to so many.

Adrian’s legacy of love, kindness, and resilience will forever shine brightly in the lives she leaves behind. 

In place of flowers the family would like memorials to go to The Backpack Food Program and Echo Food Shelf.