Mary Kay Anderson (née Aeschliman), age 79, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 31, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with a rare genetic form of ALS known as Facial Onset Sensory Motor Neuropathy (FOSMN).

Mary was born on August 25, 1946, in Altadena, California, to Marvel “Muggs” Elizabeth Strandin and Samuel Christopher Aeschliman. She lived a life marked by resilience, deep love for her family, and enduring connections with those around her. In December 2025, Mary moved to an assisted living facility in Burnsville, Minnesota, where she spent her final months.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Joseph W. Anderson; and her brother, Elgin Aeschliman. Mary is lovingly remembered by her children, Jennifer Anderson of St. Paul, Minnesota, grandson Joshua;  and Jared Anderson of Blaine, Minnesota; as well as numerous cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mary’s quiet strength, warmth, and devotion to God and her family will be deeply missed and forever treasured.

Mary Kay spent her early years in both California and Hawaii, experiences that shaped her warm spirit and lifelong appreciation for people and place. She attended Wittenberg University in Ohio, where she began her path in education. After graduating, she returned to Hawaii and earned her Master of Education from the University of Hawaii in 1969, going on to work as a special education teacher. Her early career reflected a deep commitment to helping others overcome challenges and reach their fullest potential. In 1973, Mary Kay moved to Minnesota, beginning a new chapter at the Minneapolis Veterans Administration. There, she contributed to neurologic research and co‑authored several published medical articles, demonstrating her intellectual curiosity and dedication to advancing care.

Driven by her continued passion for helping others, Mary later pursued nursing, earning her Registered Nurse (RN) license in 1981. Over the next three decades, she built a distinguished nursing career marked by compassion, leadership, and excellence. She worked at the University of Minnesota before becoming the Director of Nursing at Green Acres Country Care Center in North Branch, Minnesota. Mary spent the majority of her career with Fairview Home Care and Hospice, where she provided comfort, dignity, and care to countless patients and families during some of life’s most difficult moments. Her work reflected extraordinary empathy, a steady presence, and an unwavering commitment to serving others with kindness and grace.

Mary enjoyed baking, attending her children’s events and activities, sunshine, long conversations with friends and family, and participating in her church community. She will be remembered for her Christmas buckeyes, handwritten notes, strong faith, and joy for life.

Mary Kay’s life’s work was defined by service—whether as a teacher, researcher, or nurse—and she touched the lives of many through her intelligence, compassion, love, and kindness.

Her celebration of life service will be held on July 18, 2026 at Jenny's church-St Anthony Park Lutheran Church, 2323 Como Ave, St Paul, MN 55108. The service will be at 10:30am, followed by a light lunch and conversation. To live stream watch the service, go to:  https://youtube.com/live/orjllkZ4h0g