Dear Classmates,

I am so sad to report that my twin sister Mary lost her life in a tragic car-pedestrian accident on Feb. 21, 2012

Some of you have known Mary since kindergarten at North School.   In those years, Mary was an energetic and somewhat mischievous tomboy; she could run like the wind, climb trees in a flash and hit home runs time after time.   She could stand on her head seemingly forever.   But she was most proud of the huge collection of cat's eyes, boulders, "steelies" and "aggies" she won playing marbles on the playground.

Mary had a soft spot for animals of every kind.   She was always bringing home tiny rabbits to raise with eyedroppers of milk, or baby birds to keep warm in the oven and feed insects to.   By junior high, horses had become her passion, and she spent her free time riding and caring for her horses Gypsy and Tag.

In high school you may remember Mary's amazing trampoline demonstrations during basketball halftimes, or her beautiful artwork.

While taking art classes at Estherville Jr. College, Mary was chosen Homecoming Queen her sophomore year.   At the University of Iowa, Mary's classes pottery-making changed the direction of her life.   After receiving a BA in Art, Mary served a 2-year apprenticeship with a well-known potter in Minneapolis.   Mary then moved to Albuquerque where she opened her own very successful pottery studio and gallery, and where her unique style of pottery-making developed over the next 35 years.

Mary had a generous, loving heart, a gentleness of spirit, a quick wit and a sparkle in her eye.   She will be deeply missed.   Mary is survived by her siblings John, Marcia, Mark and Brad, and her father, Frank of Milford.

As her family mourns Mary's passing we would so appreciate hearing any stories or memories you might have of her.   I invite you to post remembrances on this website or email to me at marciatm7@comcast.net.   Old photos of Mary would be priceless to us.