Mary A. Walsh

Mary A. Walsh, age 91 of Cottage Grove and formerly of Hastings, died peacefully at Norris Square surrounded by her loving family on Sunday evening, February 11, 2024.

Mary Alice, the daughter of Toby and Lucy (McCarney) Foley, was born on August 28, 1932, in Eden Valley, Minnesota. Following her graduation from Litchfield High School, Mary worked for the FBI in Washington, DC, assisting with fingerprinting administration, which was a job that she truly was proud of. In April of 1956, Mary was united in marriage to to Clarence J. Walsh in Litchfield, and they were blessed with four children prior to his passing. Mary enjoyed working with ceramics, loved arts, and being creative. She also enjoyed playing cards, especially bridge and 500, as well as traveling with friends and family, especially the trips to Ireland with her siblings and Mexico with her kids. Mary's catholic faith played an important roll throughout her life, and her unconditional love for family and friends is an inspiration and legacy that will never be forgotten.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Clarence; daughter, Diane Nolan; and by her siblings, Jim (Mabel) Foley and Betty (Bud) Payne.

Mary is survived by her children, Fran Walsh (Delos Nokleby, Teresa (Steven) Dropkin, and John (Jacque) Walsh; son-in-law, Jim Nolan; grandchildren, Nathan Nolan, Michelle (Jake) Hawkins, Laura (Pat) Collins, Jaimie Walsh, and Joe Walsh (Hannah Phillips); nine great grandchildren; brother, Paul (JoAnn) Foley; and by many other relatives and friends.

A private Celebration of Mary's Life will be held at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.

In lieu of flowers, Mary specifically requested memorials be designated to Hastings Family Service or Catholic Charities in her memory.

Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.