Mary Ann Lancaster

Mary Ann Clair Lancaster of Northfield passed away peacefully on March 1^st, 2024 at the age of 80, surrounded by loved ones. 

Mary Ann was born May 2^nd, 1943 to Walter and Helen (Vondell) Busse and graduated from Wheaton High School in 1961. She married Jerry Lancaster in 1970 and was married 36 years prior to his passing. 

She spent the majority of her career as secretary of the Good Thunder Elementary School where she supported hundreds of children and staff throughout her tenure. Mary Ann enjoyed spending time with friends and family, gardening, puzzles, collecting coins, collecting blue carnival glass and was an avid reader. Her passion for caregiving was evident as she fostered over 80 children and volunteered at various organizations during her retirement.   

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Helen; husband, Jerry; daughter, Melinda; son, Troy; and son-in-law, Chad Nordstrom. She is survived by her son, David (Debi) Hein of New Ulm; Lance (Alicia) Lancaster of Okmulgee, OK; son, Gene (Melissa) Lancaster of Mankato; Stacy (Frank) Lancaster of Whitney, TX; Mark (Tricia) Lancaster of Northfield; Mary Helen Nordstrom of Amboy; many grandchildren; great grandchildren; and siblings, Walnetta Allison, Walter Busse and Linda Busse. 

The family would like to thank the Mayo Hospice South team and Allina Clinics in Northfield for the care and compassion they showed Mary Ann. 

Visitation will be held at Northview – North Mankato Mortuary on Thursday, March 14^th from 4-7 p.m. with a light meal being served. Interment will be held later this year at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.