Mary Helen Donkers

Mary Donkers, age 81, of Cottage Grove, MN passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 2, 2024.

A Graveside Service will be at 1:30 pm on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, 7601 34th Ave. S.; Minneapolis, MN 55450. Please arrive by 1:15 pm at Assembly Area #6 to attend. This service will be available to view on Livestream, see information below.

Mary was born October 21, 1942 to Harold and Gertrude (Markowski) Thompson in Little Rock, Arkansas. Mary was a military spouse through the years as her husband Duane served for over 20 years. Mary worked as an LPN, licensed practical nurse for the majority of her career, culminating with her retirement from Health East locally. She was a member of St. Rita's Catholic Church and was very involved in a support group called "Support Our Countries Military". Mary enjoyed traveling, knitting, crocheting and visiting with friends. The heart of Mary's life was her family, especially time spent with the grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by all. 

Mary is survived by children Duane (Tara), David (Angela), William and Janet DeLaCruz; nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren; sister Linda Fanning and many nieces and nephews. Mary is preceded in death by husband Duane; daughter Elizabeth Donkers and brother Ronald Thompson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION: For those who would like to participate in the service via livestream, you can watch the service by scrolling to the bottom of this page and click “PLAY" to begin. Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall to let the family know you were able to watch the service. If you are having trouble with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.