Mary Charlotte Michener, 91, passed away May 29, 2024 at Tierra Rose Care Facility in Salem, Oregon. Born Feb. 17, 1933 to Mabel (Anderson) and George Holmquist in Killdeer, ND, Mary was the second oldest of 7 children. She attended school at Albert Lea in Minnesota, Salem Senior High in Salem, OR, Pacific Lutheran University and Oklahoma State University, receiving a BS degree in Home Life - Child Development.
While married to her first husband, David Knutson, Mary served 2 years as a missionary in Africa where she taught first and second grade. She and David raised 3 children before divorcing.
Mary went back to school receiving an Associate Degree in Nursing from Chemeketa Community College in the spring of 1975. She purchased West Salem Educational Day Care Center in 1978 and operated it for 10 years. On July 24, 1993, Mary married Kenneth Michener. They enjoyed traveling together and singing in the Festival Chorale of Oregon before Ken passed in January 2015.
Mary was also preceded in death by brothers Paul, Carl and Ray Holmquist, daughter Julie Knutson and one grandson. She is survived by brothers Jon (Solveig) and David (Laura) Holmquist, sister Ruth Jacobs, daughter Karen (David) Williams, son Paul Knutson, and several nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A private family graveside service was held on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at Belcrest Memorial where Mary was laid to rest beside Ken. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 7 at 12:30pm at Christ the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (4440 State St, Salem). Donations in Mary’s honor may be made to Christ the Good Shepherd.
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