Mary Ann May

About Mary

Mary Ann May, 73, of Bemidji, MN died Tuesday, March 8, 2022 surrounded by her family and friends. After a 2 year battle with a progressive brain disease, she succumbed to the illness in the comfort of her home.

Mary was born May 27, 1948 in St. Cloud, MN, the daughter of Willard and Alvira (Maier) Schwinghammer. She graduated from St. Cloud Hospital School of Nursing and Bemidji State University. She married John May June 10, 1970 in St. Cloud, MN. Following their marriage, they moved to Aberdeen, South Dakota. After a few years and completion of her RN program at Presentation College, they moved to Bemidji in 1974 to raise their family. She would go on to be a nurse in the Bemidji area for over 40 years. She primarily worked in hospice and public health nursing. She was a volunteer with the Make a Wish Foundation, Beltrami County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse and member of Lake Plantagenet Association.

Mary’s love for horses knew no bounds. She generally rode every day without regard to weather or locale. On occasion this meant riding in the moonlight, freezing rain or driving snow. Not wanting any of her horses to feel neglected, Mary would ride multiple times throughout the day. She was able to channel this passion into the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse; sporting her shiny badge and volunteering for her community. This love of horses continued even as she wasn’t able to ride anymore. Recollections of her beloved horses were a source of comfort for her as her condition declined. Her affinity for the equine was contagious. Countless children were introduced to the joy of riding under Mary’s gentle guidance.

Mary was known for taking children under her wing; nurturing them and encouraging them in their endeavors. Ever generous with her time, Mary took countless children on horseback rides, delivering her own form of “equine therapy.” Whether it was horse riding or time at the lake, Mary enjoyed finding a common ground with children to develop a bond. She had more than 50 nieces/nephews and great nieces/nephews yet she found a way to connect with each of them.

As the eldest daughter of a large family, Mary was a mother figure to her younger siblings. Without fail, her siblings recounted endless stories of her kindness and maternal leanings. In her illness, her brothers traveled from afar and repaid this kindness with humorous and heartfelt stories. Their deep bond was felt amid the laughter and tears. Outnumbered in a family of 15 boys, Mary was one of only 4 sisters. Known by the family simply as “The Sisters,” the four women in the family were inseparable. They were, and are, a pillar for the extended family, and Mary was their boss mare.

When Mary and John started their own family, Mary enveloped her children, Ben and Rebecca, with love. John and Mary instilled in their children a love of nature. They supported them in their educational and creative endeavors. Later, Mary was able to expand this love to her grandchildren, Vincent and Isabella. Mary took great pride in her grandchildren and loved being Grandma. Her family was a great source of comfort for her, providing constant companionship as her health waned.

Mary extended the same level of affection and caring to her friends. Often a “no nonsense” kind of woman, there was no limit to what she would do for those who were close to her. Her friendships ran long and deep, spanning decades. Whether they were swimming at the lake, taking a sauna, or horseback riding, she cherished time with her friends. An avid reader, her book club provided a wonderful expression of her love of reading. She was an active community member. Among the many friends who helped care for her, the family would particularly like to recognize: Linda Blessing, Diane Rose, Jody Ausk, Jody Frederickson, Sue Bruns, and Jan Perrson.

Mary had an adventurous spirit. Rarely passing up an opportunity to travel, Mary saw the world. Her love of horses and desire for travel often coincided. Whether she was in Norway, Neuschwanstein or New York City, Mary found an opportunity to commune with horses. Her friends and sisters often accompanied her on these adventures and helped her get in and out of trouble.

Mary was an exceptional nurse, a “nurse’s nurse.” She was a pioneer in the field of hospice in the Bemidji area. Countless families recollect her care and compassion as their loved ones died. She sought to provide comfort and dignity in the dying process. Showing particular support for those struggling with HIV/AIDS, she was instrumental in creating a culture of acceptance locally. Creating awareness and support for those affected by fetal alcohol effects/syndrome was also a passion for Mary. Although she worked in nearly all areas of healthcare, her nursing career was beyond an occupation; it was truly a calling.

Mary is survived by her husband John May, son Ben May, daughter Rebecca May, grandson Vincent Fontana, granddaughter Isabella Fontana, and Schwinghammer siblings: Rob (Joan), Dan (Judy), William (Cindy), Tim (Bonnie), Margaret (Mike) Moen, Peter (Anita), Ruth (Chuck Toulouse), Loren (Kari), Paul (Barb Young), Charlie, David (Michele), Tom (Kim), Jerry (Lia), and Joan “Jodi” (Bruce Beckley). Mary was preceded in death by her parents Willard and Alvira Schwinghammer and brothers: Tommy, Jim, Roger, and Johnny.

memorial service

Memorial Services for Mary

March 30, 2022

St Philip's Catholic Church 702 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601, USA

Fr. Michael Arey will be officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Cease Family Funeral Home