Obituary of Mary Ellen Nordgren

Mary Ellen (Walerius) Nordgren loving mother of four, passed away at her home in the early hours of July 18, 2024, at the age of 78. Mary was born on September 16, 1945, in Redwood Falls, Minnesota. She was the oldest of 7 children born to Norbert and Catherine Walerius.

Mary graduated from Redwood Falls High School in 1963 and went on to Nursing School. She was a farm wife and raised her children. Later she worked as a Senior Nutrition Director for nine counties for most of her career. At the age of 45 she decided to go back to college and was proud to graduate from Southwest State University with a degree in Elementary Education.

Mary was preceded in death by her soulmate and second husband Terry Nordgren. They lived in Willmar, Minnesota and built many memories with their family. Mary was very creative, she loved to host the annual Walerius girls craft day at her home. She made many beautiful crafts, her talent and attention to details showed through in every kitchen towel she hand stitched. She loved cooking for family and friends, with a favorite being Christmas cookies.

Mary is survived by her Children, Tammy (Zinda) Gohl and her husband Michael, Noel Ann (Zinda) Casperson and her husband Albert, Thomas Zinda, and Jennifer Zinda. 8 Grandchildren Kalli and Riley Gohl, Christopher Barrett, Zach and Chris Zinda, Ellen, Sam and Luke Casperson. Her Siblings, Carol (Butch) Rice, Jan (Dan) Shaffer, Jo (Larry) Brecht, Jeff (Colleen) Walerius, and Meg (John) Smyrski. Sister-in-law Jill Walerius.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother James Walerius, husband Terry Nordgren.

Mary lived the last 7 years in the care of an amazing team of heart specialists and kidney specialists as well as the Country Manor Assisted Living staff. Her family is eternally grateful for the love and care these people provided to Mary over her journey.

Services will be held Monday, July 29, 2024 at The Country Manor, 520 1st Street NE, Sartell, MN 56377 with Rosary starting at 9:30am; Visitation at 10:00am; Memorial Mass at 11:00am. A luncheon will follow the Mass all at the Country Manor Chapel.