Mary Ann Ryan

Mary Ann (Darling) Ryan, 95, of Inkster, ND, passed away peacefully at home on the family farm surrounded by the love of her family. 

Born on July 12th, 1929 in Inkster to Nora (Hunking) Darling and Oscar Darling, Mary Ann was raised and educated in Strathcona, MN. She met the love of her life, Con Ryan, and they married on January 11th, 1947. Together, they moved their home from Inkster to their new farmstead west of town where they raised their eight children and ran a Grade A dairy. Mary Ann’s heart for service led her to caring for children at the Grafton State School, serving as the President of the Altar Society at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Conway, and as President of the Inkster Homemakers for many years. Countless meals and memories were shared around her table, as everyone gathered to enjoy her delicious cooking and warm hospitality. 

For over 30 years, Mary Ann and Con were loyal UND basketball fans, as well as enjoying football and hockey. They loved to dance, attend their grandchildren’s activities, and host family and friends at the farm. We rejoice that they are together again, dancing and celebrating in heaven. 
The family would like to thank their brother Dean for his wonderful, dedicated care and love of mom and the farm for so many years. 

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Con, their infant son Jack, and daughter Colleen.
She is survived by her children Patty (Kregg) Foltz, Theresa (Wayne) Devine, Mike (Ann) Ryan, Merry Lynn Ohlheiser and partner Dave Wacker, Jay (Joy) Ryan, Dean Ryan, and Shanna (Matt) Foerster, as well as 22 grandchildren and 38 great grandchildren. 

Please join us in celebrating Mary Ann’s life at St. John’s Catholic Church in Pisek, ND on Monday, July 29th. Visitation will be from 9-10:30, with a rosary at 10:30 and Mass at 11. Arrangements are through Tollefson’s Funeral Home in Park River, ND. 

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