Mary A. (Maurstad) Pederson

Mary (Maurstad) Pederson, 61, formerly of Warren, MN, passed away on Friday, January 20, 2017, in Thief River Care Center, Thief River Falls, MN.

Mary Maurstad was born on October 11, 1955, in Karlstad, MN, to Maurice D. and Irene B. (Swanson) Maurstad. She was raised in Warren, where she attended Warren High School. On March 16, 1974, she was united in marriage to Mark L. Pederson. The couple made their home in Warren. Early in life Mary worked at the local nursing home as a CNA and also as a Book Keeper. In her earlier years she loved to dance, fish, and go camping.

Mary’s calling in life was caring for others. She was very passionate about this aspect of her life. In Mary’s mid 30’s she encountered numerous medical challenges, despite this, Mary’s spirit rarely faltered. Although Mary faced many medical challenges throughout her life, her determination to care for her children was exceptional. She could always be counted on to show the motherly affection that came so naturally to her. Often phone calls and visits from one of her family was centered on their concerns and not her own. Mary truly was thankful for all she had and always did her best to put family first.

Mary was never kept from enjoying her life. She enjoyed listening to music, the beauty of flowers, bird watching, and playing cards with family and friends.

In her final years at the Care Center Mary was able to return to her true calling in life, caring for others. She would often make the “rounds” in her scooter, checking on her fellow residents and making sure their needs were being met. Mary was well known at the Care Center for notifying staff if any of her fellow residents required assistance. Mary truly enjoyed being able to serve others in whatever way she was able.

Mary was very proud of her children and grandchildren. When given the opportunity, she would often share the stories of their accomplishments with others.

Mary is survived by her children, Joey (Julie) Pederson of East Grand Forks, MN, Jenny (Chris) Schulz of Euclid, MN, and Cassie (Jorge) Maurstad of Thief River Falls; grandchildren, Kelsi, Tucker, Aaden, and Jessica; great-grandchildren, Allize and Otto; siblings, Herb (Jackie) Maurstad, David (Annette) Maurstad, Bev Niedzielski, and Betty Johnson; and former spouse, Mark L. Pederson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Bernice Peters Kostrzewski, Berdell Dunworth; and niece, Sara Maurstad.

​Visitation: One hour prior to services at the church.
​Memorial Service: Friday, January 27, 2017, at 11:00 AM, in Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Warren.
​Interment: Greenwood Cemetery, Warren, MN.

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