Mary L. Peterson

PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE IN SERVICE DATE AND TIME: Due to winter weather and for the safety of all, the service has been postponed and will now be held on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 11:00AM at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services, with a visitation beginning one hour prior to the service. 

Mary Lee Peterson, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 80 on December 19th, 2025, in her home surrounded by family in Albert Lea, Minnesota.

Mary was born on May 27, 1945, in Riceville, Iowa, to Carl and Emma (Gilgert) Lenth. From a young age, she was known as a vibrant and adventurous social butterfly—someone whose love for laughter and lighthearted spirit could instantly brighten a room. She graduated from Riceville High School in 1963, already showing the independence, resilience, big heart, and fun-loving nature that would define her life.

After moving from Mason City, Iowa, to Minneapolis, Minnesota, Mary welcomed her first child, Stacey. She later settled in Albert Lea, Minnesota, where she had her second child, Cory. It was there that Mary truly made her home. She embraced motherhood with her whole heart, balancing her devotion to her children with a strong work ethic that allowed her to thrive in her career at Streater Inc. Through it all, she raised her children with values rooted in love, faith, and community.

Mary’s deep sense of community—shaped by her strong faith—was evident in the countless ways she gave her time and heart to others. Whether volunteering at the community theater, serving her church as a board member and Sunday school teacher, or volunteering at the hospital gift shop, Mary showed up fully and joyfully. Her ability to make people feel welcome and her lighthearted nature helped her form deep relationships wherever she went. One of her proudest accomplishments was the wide and vibrant network of friends and family she cultivated throughout her life, from her involvement with the Albert Lea Jaycees to the many memorable trips she shared with friends over the years.

Travel was one of Mary’s great joys. Her adventurous spirit took her on camping trips, cruises, road trips, and vacations with friends and family. She cherished trips to places like Palm Springs, Hawaii, Tennessee, Florida, and Arizona—where she loved soaking up the sun, golfing, and creating memories filled with joy. Her playful spirit, warm smile, and unmistakable hearty laugh made every gathering brighter.

Later in life, Mary found immense happiness in her role as a grandmother. She cherished time with her grandchildren—sharing her love of music through jam sessions and vinyl records, teaching them favorite games like Cribbage and Rummikub, and cheering them on through sporting events, performances, and life’s milestones. She proudly bragged about their accomplishments, and was always ready to listen, offer wisdom, and encourage each of them to be their very best.

Mary leaves behind a family who will carry her love, laughter, and light forward, including her daughter, Stacey (Steve) Bangh; son Cory (Tamara) Larsen; her treasured grandchildren Alex (Maddison) Bangh, Lauren Bangh, Aaron Bangh, Emma Larsen, and Anders Larsen; her sister Lois Warszynksi; numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and countless friends.

In addition to her parents, Carl and Emma Lenth, Mary was preceded in death by her infant son, Chad Larsen; and her brother, Dale (Barb) Lenth.

A memorial service to celebrate her life and memory will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services, with a visitation beginning at 10:00 am.

A special thank you to the wonderful Mayo Hospice staff that helped make mom's final days as comfortable as possible. Their support meant more to us than they will ever know.