Mary Louise Strand

MARY LOUISE STRAND, age 82, of Waseca, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at Foxdale Senior Living in Waseca.

Mary was born on January 22, 1942, in Faribault, to Lawrence and Betty (Thom) LeMieux. After the loss of her mother, she was lovingly adopted and raised by her aunt and uncle, Frank and Alice (LeMieux) Thruen. Mary graduated from Morristown High School in 1960 and continued her education in Minneapolis, where she trained as a lab technician. She worked for Dr. Rohrer’s office before dedicating her life to raising her family.

On November 17, 1962, Mary married the love of her life, Clifton Strand, at Sacred Heart Church in Faribault. Together, they built a home filled with love, faith, and family, raising six children. Later, Mary returned to the workforce as an office administrator for the Waseca School District, where she served at both Hartley Elementary and Waseca High School for over 26 years. She retired in 2005, leaving a legacy of kindness and dedication.

Mary’s life was deeply rooted in her Catholic faith and her unwavering devotion to Jesus and the Blessed Mother. A lifelong member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, she faithfully served through numerous ministries and was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America. She founded the Homebound Ministry, ensuring that those unable to leave their homes could still receive communion. Mary’s devotion to the Blessed Mother was evident in her dedication to praying the rosary daily, offering countless prayers for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her every action with love and compassion.

After retirement, Mary and Clifton enjoyed winters in Texas, where they made cherished memories. Mary was a gifted quilter and seamstress, generously sharing her talents by creating sundresses and diapers for children in need across the globe and head coverings for cancer patients. She was an avid gardener, nature lover, and frequent walker around Clear Lake. Above all, she adored her family, exuding boundless love and support. Whether attending her grandchildren’s events or sharing her wisdom, Mary’s presence was a beacon of kindness and goodness. From her very core, she was a loving, selfless, and gentle soul who touched the lives of all who knew her.

Mary is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Clifton Strand, and their children: LeAnn Dahle of Waseca, Linda Strand of Owatonna, Blair (Kristin) Strand of Waseca, and Robert (Heather) Strand of Houston. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Jacob Dahle, Derek (Cait) Strand, Daryn (Katie) Strand, Ashley Strand, Samantha Strand, Desiree Strand, Jordan (Cooper) Gillick, Elizabeth (Josh) Lyons, Alycen Strand, and Kyle (Jordan) Strand, as well as her great-grandchildren: Sophie, Lillie, Rorie, Zoie, Paisley, Braelynn, and Jaxon.

Mary is further survived by her sisters: Sharon (Dave) Meschke of Morristown, Beth Ann (Roger) Madson of Prior Lake, Lori (Andy) Schmitz of St. Paul, and Dana (Wade) Hanson of Eagan; her daughter-in-law, Brenda (Bruce) Ebeling of Waseca; her stepmother, Doris LeMieux of Minneapolis; sister-in-law, Dee LeMieux of Pine River; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her sons, John Strand and Brett Strand; her parents; her brothers, Fred LeMieux and infant Alan LeMieux; her son-in-law, Jeff Dahle.

Memorials are preferred to Sacred Heart Catholic School.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM, with a Rosary at 9:00 AM. Interment will follow at Woodville Cemetery.