Marie Frances (Pedersen) Hermes

"Mitzi" as she was known to most, was born to Rollin Pedersen and Frances (Greenberg) Pedersen on July 8, 1932, in Superior WI. The family moved often during Mitzi's younger years, but eventually settled in Salem, OR where she graduated from Salem High School in 1950.

Mitzi married Harry Hermes in 1952 and started a family, raising four daughters. The family moved frequently in the early years due to Harry's US Forestry job transfers, but eventually settled in Eugene OR where Mitzi remained for almost 60 years before moving to Salem. Mitzi's home was her sanctuary where she expressed her creative side through many home improvement projects. Because of her eye for detail, she was also asked by friends and family to assist them on their projects. She accomplished much on a limited budget due to her excellent money managing skills (which she passed on to her daughters).

Mitzi enjoyed a lifelong love of music starting from when she sang soprano in the high school choir. She also enjoyed dancing, participating in roller dancing in her teen years, folk dancing with the 'Son's of Norway and square dancing with Harry. After the girls were born Mitzi focused on providing them with music and dance experiences. She encouraged their creativity by providing activities at home and through participation in Campfire and Girl Scout troops and leading a 4-H group. Mitzi always put her family first. It was her priority in this life. She was a curious, creative, kind and generous soul.

Marie is survived by her two sisters, Charlene Hill and Jean Pedersen in Salem OR; Daughters, Brenda Hermes in Salem OR, Vicki Korsak in Sacramento Calif., Terry (Ric) Erkes in Charlotte NC and Laura (Michael) Nemecek in Raleigh NC; grandchildren, Danielle, Kevin, Kyle, Amanda, and Brendan; nieces and nephews.

Marie's last few years of life were difficult, but she always demonstrated a strong will to persevere and participate in life the best she could. At Marie's request no funeral services were held. She is interned at Willamette National Cemetery alongside Harry.