Graduated College of St. Teresa, Winona, MN, with BS in Elementary Education. 5th year college University of Puget Sound. Masters and Elementary Principal Credential from Western WA, University. Retired – 30 years of experience as an elementary teacher and principal.
Mary’s parents died a day apart in 1987. Mary’s husband died suddenly in 2001, at the age of 57. Mary had Power of Attorney and was Executor for those family members. Mary has handled end of life affairs for two elderly people with no family to help them. She has also taken care of end of life affairs for an aunt and an uncle. Having a completed Health Care Directive and a Power of Attorney enables others to make decisions when the need arises. It is difficult to handle affairs when one is grieving, so having end of life paperwork in order is a big help to Powers of Attorney and Executor. Getting people to talk about end of life issues and writing things down is important. Mary has been part of Honor My Wishes since 2003. Mary currently serves as Treasurer and has held that job for 7 years. Mary feels privileged to help others organize their end of life affairs.