Mary Helen Colbenson, a beloved wife, sister, aunt, and friend, was born on April 3, 1965, in Rochester, MN. She left this world on November 18, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Mary’s life, though too short, was filled with a profound love for others, a commitment to her work, and an adventurous spirit that took her to beautiful places and created countless cherished memories.
Mary met her wife Jeannine “George” in 1983, although their lives had crossed in1965 when both were born at St. Mary’s Hospital one day apart and were in incubators side by side for the first days of their lives. They attended college together at RCC and worked together as camp counselors, along with Mary’s sister Kim, at Edith Mayo Day Camp in Rochester. Their long friendship and love led to Mary and George being married on Sept. 6, 2014 in North Mankato, but their relationship spanned 30 years.
Throughout her life, Mary exemplified dedication and resilience. She worked tirelessly as a social worker for Watonwan County for 35 years, making a significant impact in the lives of many. Mary’s passion for helping others led her to earn her Master’s Degree with Honors as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from North Central University in 2014, an accomplishment she celebrated with a hot air balloon ride.
Mary was not only devoted to her work but was also deeply involved in her community. A member of Women of Today, she volunteered with the local Humane Society and actively participated in numerous community events and charities. She had a special fondness for participating in after parties for prom and graduation.
Her love for adventure was evident in her many travels, particularly along the North Shore, with Grand Marais being a favorite destination. Mary enjoyed listening to the waves crash against the shore and watching George try to dodge them. Her adventurous spirit also led her to remarkable experiences, like attending the 2002 Olympics in Utah and visiting hot air balloon festivals in New Mexico and Iowa, as well as spontaneous adventures around the country.
Mary is survived by her spouse Jeannine (George), parents, George and Eileen (Katy) Colbenson, her sister Kim (Jeff) Hill, and her nieces Beth Hill and Carly Anstett, nephew Josh Hill, aunts, uncles, and an extended family of cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandparents.
A Celebration of Life honoring Mary will be held on December 7, 2024, from 1:00-4:00 at the St. James VFW. Friends and family are invited to join together to celebrate the remarkable life of a woman who touched the hearts of so many.
Mary and Jeannine wish to say thank you for the exceptional care she received on the 4th floor at Rochester Methodist Hospital. Special thanks are also extended to Lori Kuehl for her unwavering support and assistance with the paperwork (and feeding the cats), and to Thad Lochner and Kari Byro for their kindness, friendship and support during this time. Mary cherished all those who were by her side, and her love will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.
Mary Helen Colbenson will be deeply missed, but her spirit, love, and the memories she created will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Thank you, Mary, for your bright light and the love you shared with all of us.
The Celebration of Life information will be posted on her CaringBridge site.
