Obituary of Miriam Pospesel Mount

Miriam Pospesel Mount died peacefully from complications of kidney failure on September 17, 2020. She was born June 12, 1933 in Dayton, OH to parents Rev. Howard Irwin Pospesel and Clara Robe Pospesel.

She attended Wittenberg College in Springfield, Ohio, where she earned a degree in elementary education, and the University of Minnesota in Duluth where she earned a Master’s degree in education. Miriam moved to Duluth in 1967 with her then-husband Donald Mount, and taught for many years at Washington Junior High, Lincoln Junior High, and East High Schools, working with students with learning challenges. After her retirement from the public schools, she was active as an instructor and student in UMD’s University for Seniors. She was a member of First United Methodist Church of Duluth, PEO Chapter DD, and Delta Kappa Gamma.

She is survived by her daughter Marti (Nic) Steussy of Indianapolis IN, son David Mount (Beth Mullan) of Two Harbors, and Malee Tang of Duluth, who became a second daughter to Miriam after they met in 1988; sister-in-law Carmen Pospesel of Grand Island FL; and grandchildren David and Clara Steussy. Miriam was preceded in death by her brother Howard Pospesel.

Miriam was a woman who loved life and people. She was known for her sense of humor and made a multitude of friends, with many friendships spanning decades. She helped host several foreign exchange teachers visiting Duluth, and travelled extensively, spending time studying and teaching in China, Thailand, Kenya, and across Europe. Miriam was a fervent believer in human rights and social justice, and was concerned about improving life for all. In 1992, she sponsored Malee’s family on their journey to the United States from a refugee camp in Thailand, securing housing and livelihoods for them with the help of her church.

Her children extend a special thank you to the staff at Westwood Senior Living, who cared for Miriam with great kindness and affection for many years. Miriam considered you family. Another special thanks to the staff of St. Mary’s Medical Center Hospice, who supported Miriam so well during her final year.  A public service is not planned in the near term. Those wishing to memorialize Miriam’s life may do so by donating or contributing to social justice efforts at First United Methodist Church of Duluth (fumcduluth.com) or Southern Poverty Law Center (splcenter.org) or by simply helping someone in need.