Mary Willson

Mary Jane Willson, 87, entered into God’s kingdom on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. She was a beloved wife, mother and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Mary was born on March 18, 1937 in Albia, Iowa, to her parents, Charles and Mary Alice Monroe. She was united in marriage to Robert FDR Willson on May 28, 1955 at St. Peter’s church in Des Moines, Iowa. Spirit Lake, Iowa was a home away from home for them and their family. She loved having family and friends come to the lake and enjoy the cabins there. Mary and Bob also spent time seeing the country by traveling in their motor home. They enjoyed visiting family and friends.

Her memory will be cherished by husband, Bob Willson; daughters, Becky (Chuck) Keeling and Penny (John) Dankbar; sons, Bob (Samantha) Willson and Larry Willson; grandchildren, Adam, Alan, Rachel, Hannah Jenna and Jared; great-grandchildren, Averi, Sophie, Annabelle, Wyatt, Henry and Willson; and her sisters, Bette Beavers, Shelia (Jerry) Jennings, and Christy Pulse.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Mary Alice; sister, Donna Westlake; brothers, Billy, Robert, Charles and Rick Monroe; nephew, Mark Westlake; niece, Cindi Monroe; In-laws, Blanche and Guy Willson; and daughter-in-law, Kristi Willson.

Family will greet friends on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue in Des Moines. Mass of Christian burial will take place the following day, Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s of Nazareth Catholic Church, 4600 Meredith Drive in Des Moines. Family will have a private graveside service at Glendale Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa or Spirit Lake Protective Association.

A very special thanks to the staff at Bishop Drumm Retirement Center for their wonderful care of Mary during her stay.

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