Mary Jean (Brown) Fischer of Pierre, SD, passed away October 26, 2018 following a battle with cancer. She died early in the morning surrounded by loved ones in Fargo, ND.
Mary was born February 16, 1934 in Crookston, NE to Carl and Frances Brown and grew up on a farm in Todd County, SD. She married Norman Louis Fischer December 26, 1953 in Valentine, NE. They lived in both Rapid City, SD, and Pierre, SD.
Mary ran a day care service out of her home and cared for hundreds of children. She was passionate about kids. Mary’s house was always open. If you didn’t like lunch that day, had a bad day in middle school, or wanted to stop by in high school, you were always welcome. Her daycare kids would remember “mud day,” mac and cheese lunches with peanut butter/marshmallow sandwiches, and playing on the backyard tire swings and jungle gym. She offered rules to live by including: if you bring a toy you have to be willing to share, pick up one thing before you get out another, and wait for your turn. Mary also loved auctions, sewing, and visiting with family and friends.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Lawrence, Clarence, Donald; and sisters Dorothy, Helen, Ethel Grace and Rose. She is survived by her husband, Norman of Pierre; and children Vicki, Steve, Barb (Jeff Madison), Dan (Jennie); ten grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by brothers, Willis and Marvin (Brown); and sister, Mildred (Grooms).
In typical Mary fashion, she requested that no fuss or funeral service be held. She did hope that people will remember happy times with her, favorite stories, and jokes. She will be interred in Valentine, NE this summer when her family will hold a service of remembrance.
Her family would like to thank Ethos Hospice of Fargo for all of their care during Mary’s illness.
Memorial service for Mary Jean Fischer will be held Friday, July 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Sandoz Chapel of the Pines. The inurnment will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Valentine.
Sandoz Chapel of the Pines was entrusted with service arrangements.
