Mary Ellen Folkerts

Mary Ellen Folkerts, 86, of Kerkhoven, died Friday, September 19 at the Clara City Care Center in Clara City. Her memorial service will be 11:00 am, Friday, September 26 at Bethany Church in Clara City. Her visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery in Raymond. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Home in Clara City. www.hafh.org

Mary was born on April 15, 1939, to Walter and Eva (Armstrong) Holmgren in Willmar. She spent her early years just outside of Willmar before her family relocated to Murdock. Mary graduated from Kerkhoven High School in 1957 and soon entered the workforce.

On June 22, 1960, she was united in marriage to Ernest “Ernie” Folkerts at First Methodist Church in Raymond. Together they were blessed with two children, Brian and Eva. The couple first made their home east of Raymond before settling in Kerkhoven. In 1968, when Ernie was drafted and stationed in Germany, Mary joined him overseas for two years before they returned to their farmstead near Kerkhoven.

Throughout her career, Mary worked in various roles, but her most meaningful and cherished work was as a daycare provider. She found great joy in caring for children, including her own, and formed many lasting bonds through that role.

Mary was a longtime member of Bethany Church in Clara City, where she was active in the women’s groups and enjoyed volunteering. She especially loved helping in the kitchen and was well known for the cakes she baked for special events.

She will be remembered for her patience, kindness, and the joy she brought to those around her. Mary found happiness in gardening, flowers, quilting, reading, painting, and above all, spending time with her loved ones.

Mary is survived by her husband, Ernie; children, Brian (Michelle) Folkerts and Eva Albright; grandchildren, Stuart, Eddie, Krystal, Sapphire, and Khyam; three great-grandchildren; five siblings; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her grandson, Scott Albright; and two brothers.

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