Mary Whaley

Mary Whaley, age 95, of Fordville, ND, passed away peacefully August 16 at Valley Senior Living in Grand Forks, ND with her loving family by her side.

Mary Jeanette Amundson, daughter of Henry and Sara (Bannerman) Amundson, was born July 6, 1930, on her parents’ farm near Inkster, ND. She attended country school for two years and then Inkster Public School graduating in 1948. Mary went on to graduate from Aaker’s Business College in Grand Forks and was employed by Valley Bank in Gilby and Grand Forks for ten years.

On November 16, 1958, Mary was united in marriage to her beloved husband, Ronald Whaley of Fordville. They made their home on the family farm south of Fordville until moving into town in 1994. Mary and Ron were blessed with 61 years of marriage.

In September 2023, Mary moved to Wheatland Terrace where she formed many special friendships with both residents and staff.

Mary was a devoted farm wife and loving mother who found joy in caring for her home and family. She loved entertaining.  Homemade buns and cinnamon rolls were family favorites.  She enjoyed gardening, caring for the lawn, sewing, cross-stitching, and helping out where she could on the farm. Always active, she liked to keep busy.

She and Ron loved spending time together — taking drives through the countryside, golfing, playing cards, traveling, sightseeing, and visiting with family and friends. They cherished their winters in the warm Arizona sunshine.

Mary was known for her kindness, warmth, and generosity. She was selfless and always made others feel welcome and cared for.

Mary had a strong faith and was a dedicated member of Fordville Lutheran Church, where she taught Sunday school, attended Bible studies, Ladies Aid and helped quilt.

Mary was a proud grandmother to six grandsons and two granddaughters. She enjoyed attending their many activities, graduations, and weddings. She was also blessed with ten great-grandchildren, whose visits brought her immense joy – she loved holding them.

She is survived by daughter, Leslie (Raymond) Durkin, sons Kent (Debra) Whaley and Lowell (Lesa) Whaley; grandchildren: Eric (Kristine) Durkin, Brent (Kayla) Durkin, Ryan (Jacy) Whaley, Shane (Jocelyn) Whaley, Jack (Mya) Whaley, Kirsten (Daman) Flaten, Nicholas Whaley and Karina Whaley (Kyle Becker); ten precious great grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Amundson and Maxine Rusten, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Ronald (March 12, 2020); brothers George Amundson and Thomas Amundson; sister Margaret Woods; brother-in-law Robert Woods and sister-in-law Shirley Amundson.

Mary’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the wonderful doctors, nurses, and staff at Wheatland Terrace, Altru Hospital, and Valley Senior Living for the kind and compassionate care they provided.

FUNERAL SERVICES: Thursday, August 21 at 2 p.m. in the Fordville Lutheran Church of Fordville, ND.

VISITATION:  One hour prior to the service in the church.

INTERMENT:  Oak Grove Cemetery, Fordville, ND