Obituary of Mary Ann Kaul

Mary Ann Kaul (nee: Herrmann) Age 92

September 24, 1930 – August 16, 2023

Mary was born to John and Evelyn Herrmann in Rochester MN on September 24, 1930. Her siblings were Charlie and Joy. Mary grew up in Lanesboro, Windom and later New Ulm Minnesota where her father was superintendent of schools.

She attended Macalester College and graduated from the University of MN with her degree in Nursing. She loved nursing, especially her years at Midway Hospital.

Mary married Robert Kaul on September 3, 1955. They moved many times in their first years of marriage as Bob was establishing his career as a CPA. They finally settled in Roseville, MN where they had extended family and raised their four children.

In retirement, Mary and Bob moved to the Oregon Coast. They enjoyed their beautiful home over-looking the ocean as well as being part of a smaller community. Mary was active in PEO, local theater, and volunteered countless hours at the Newport Aquarium.

Mary loved animals and birds. She had a kennel and raised Bearded Collies. She had countless other dogs and when she lived in Arizona was very active with a wildlife rescue organization. Mary shared her knowledge and love of the natural world with her children, a gift for which we are all thankful.

After being divorced, Mary gave the gift of a stable home to her foster son Tommy. He was with her for a year. They both enjoyed their time together and helped each other through some turbulent times.

Mary met Bud Thomssen on a cruise and for her there was no looking back. They were married in the Presbyterian Church in Oregon and shared time between Oregon and Arizona until they eventually moved back to Roseville. Bud was a warm and loving partner and was missed deeply when he passed.

Throughout her life Mary enjoyed traveling. She traveled with both her husbands and later enjoyed many trips with her daughters learning about the United States through trips with Road Scholar. Mary was an avid reader and a member of New Life Presbyterian Church.

Mary passed peacefully in her home attended by hospice, the amazing care team at Amira and her children. Mary is survived by daughters Kathy (Cindy) and Stacy (Dean), and sons David (Vicki) and Bruce (Sue). She is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by loving husband Rohland Thommsen and great granddaughters Astraea and Valkyrie.

A private family memorial is planned. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to The Nature Conservancy.

We would like to thank the wonderful staff at Amira Choice for the loving care they gave to Mom over the last several years. She was richly blessed by you.