Mary Knutson, 56, of Rochester died of natural causes on Jan. 27, 2014. She was born on Oct. 22, 1957, in Albert Lea to Harold and Cleota Jensen. Harold died when Mary was 13, and she was later raised by Cleota and Arne Jensen. Mary moved to Rochester in 1999 to be near her children and grandchildren. Mary worked at Madonna Towers in Rochester since 2004; here she cared greatly and selflessly for her residents and their families.

Mary had no prouder joy in her life than her two daughters and two grandsons. She loved spending time with her family, reading James Patterson books, doing crossword puzzles and spending time with her dog, Zenya. She was the most kindhearted, strong and loving person. She was loved by all who knew her. She had a special way into anyone’s heart and had a way of making one feel like they were the most important person in the world to her.

Mary is survived by her daughters Melissa “Missy” (Adam) Mertesdorf and Nicole “Nicky” (James Boelter) Knutson, both of Rochester; and her grandsons Breckin Grinnell and Cullen Grinnell (sons of Missy Mertesdorf). Mary is preceded in death by her father, Harold Jensen; mother, Cleota Jensen; stepfather, Arne Jensen; and her brother, Dean Jensen.

A memorial gathering will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday in the River Park chapel at Macken Funeral Home, 1119 11 1/2 St. SE, Rochester.

Macken Funeral Home is handling the arrangements, and online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.