February 10, 1931 – December 31, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Ellen (Borstad) Peterson on December 31, 2024 at the age of 93. Born February 10, 1931 on a farm in Devils Lake, North Dakota, Mary Ellen lived a life of deep faith and service to others.
Mary Ellen was an esteemed alumna of Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. In her written memoirs, she described attending Concordia as “the smartest decision [I] ever made”. She graduated with a degree in art and went on to become a school librarian, imbuing countless children with her love of reading.
After graduation, Mary Ellen met her husband Daniel (Danny) through church. She pronounced their engagement as one of the happiest days of her life. Mary Ellen and Danny went on to have two children, Dan and Paula, and were devoted to one another in marriage for 69 years.
Mary Ellen will be remembered for her curiosity and sharp intellect. A gifted artist, she maintained a lifelong love of learning and lived joyfully through the adventures of her children and their families. We will miss her quick wit and mischievous smile, and treasure her artwork.
Above all, Mary Ellen’s life was defined by her commitment to family. She was a present and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother (“grammy”) who delighted in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She leaves us with beautiful memories and cherished recipes for lefse, krumkake, and sandbakkles which we will lovingly bake every Christmas in her honor.
Mary Ellen was preceded in joining the Lord by her sister Carol Ruth and her beloved grandson Michael. She is survived by her sister Patricia Rutledge; husband Daniel; son Dan (Mary Ellen) and daughter Paula (Ted); five adoring grandchildren Kristina (Cody), Bryan (Tessa), Jenni, Dan, and Katie (Kevin); and three great grandchildren Raeanna, Addison, and Haisley.
Services will be held at LifeWay Church on February 8, 2025 at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Lutheran Community Services (Lcsnw.org).
