Hugh Thomas McCarren III Obituary, 1962-2026

Hugh Thomas McCarren III, 63, died May 23 at his home in Oklahoma.

He was born Dec. 10, 1962, in Philadelphia to Hugh and Elizabeth (Necas) McCarren. He grew up in Westfield, New Jersey, where he swam and played football competitively.

After high school, McCarren served two years in the U.S. Army in Germany before receiving an honorable discharge. He later moved to Minnesota, where he met and married Stephanie Buckingham. They had two children, Kelly and Cresse.

McCarren worked as a car salesman at Owatonna Ford, CarTime, and World of Wheels. Colleagues and customers recalled his ability to connect with people and his humor. He wrote frequently and enjoyed telling stories. An advocate for veterans with PTSD, he offered support to those facing similar struggles.

McCarren followed the Minnesota Vikings and spent time with his service dog, Sammy Jo. He sent surprise packages to his three grandchildren—Jaxon, Lake, and Kemper—and discussed sports with them.

He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his daughter Kelly (Derrick) LaMotte, his son Cresse McCarren, and his three grandchildren.

Friends may visit the family at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna, Minnesota, on Thursday, June 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. Military honors will follow at 7:15 p.m. Memorials may be sent to the funeral home in care of Hugh McCarren.