Mary was born on September 10, 1942, in Hendricks, MN. She passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving family. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, George and Kathryn Stahr; her husband, Gerald; and her siblings, Teresa, Helen, Patricia, and Mike. She is survived by her daughters, Becky and Mary Catherine, and her family; son-in-law Lucio Lanucara; grandchildren Paolo and Susanna Lanucara; and many nieces and nephews. 

To her high school friends, she was known as Moon. To her extended Irish Catholic family, she was Meem. To her husband of over 50 years, she was his Iron Rose. And most of all, she was Mom. 

She married her high school sweetheart, Gerald (Jerry), and together they built a family united by fierce love and loyalty. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was also a devout Catholic, a talented writer, a beloved teacher's aide, and a loyal friend. She loved the simple things—reading, walks in the park, a good cup of coffee. 

Wherever her adventurous husband took her—Iowa, Indiana, California, or Italy—she followed. But her roots remained in South Dakota. 

Mary lived a life of humble and selfless service—to God, family, and community. Her life serves as a beautiful example of doing small things with great love.

"To show great love for God and our neighbor, we need not do great things. It is how much love we put in the doing that makes our offerings something beautiful for God." -Mother Theresa