Mary Christine Schwenzfeier, 63 years of age, died on Wednesday, June 10, 2015 in Fergus Falls, MN lovingly surrounded by her family. 

Mary was born on the 23^rd of October, 1951 in Grand Forks, ND to Calvin and Eunice Schwenzfeier.  In 1952, the family moved to Washburn, WI where Mary graduated from high school in 1969.  She went on to post-secondary education at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education.  She later obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from the University of Alaska - Fairbanks.  Mary’s vocational experience includes serving as an elementary school teacher in Serona, Wisconsin, Saldovia, Alaska and Little Tutka Bay, Alaska.  Mary spent 32 years serving with Alaska Fish and Game, initially at a Fish Hatchery in Little Tutka, Kodiak Island and then 22 years in Dutch Harbor, overseeing the Observer program for the Bearing Sea crab fishery.  She also volunteered on the Aleutian Island Arts Council in Dutch Harbor, AK and the Alaska Land Trust in Homer, AK.

Mary’s hobbies included hiking, international travel, reading, music and gardening.  Mary will be remembered for her adventurous, gentle and free spirit.  Her laughter and curiosity were contagious. Mary’s engaging personality and leadership qualities allowed her to play a mentoring role to many, and her investment in the lives of those who lived around her will long be remembered and appreciated. 

Mary is preceded in death by her father Calvin and her mother Eunice.  She is survived by her life partner Howard Henning, and her siblings Rebecca Schwenzfeier, Paul (Carla) Schwenzfeier, Tim Schwenzfeier, Carl Schwenzfeier, Peter (Elizabeth Houle) Schwenzfeier and Rachel (Dan) Venberg.  She is also survived by her aunt Mildred Opland as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and surrogate in-laws and grandchildren.

Blessed by Mary’s memory!