Mary June Estes

Estes, Mary June 90, of Mpls., passed away peacefully with her daughter at her side November 7, 2013 at Our Lady of Peace Hospice in St. Paul. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, November 13 at 11 am at St. John's Lutheran Church, Mpls. Visitation prior to the funeral at 9 am. Mary June was born June 29, 1923 in Red Wing, MN. She loved the pastures and rolling hills of Welch and always considered it the home of her heart. She graduated from Washburn High School in Mpls. and held a Bachelor's Degree in Education and a Master's in Special Education, both at the University of Minnesota. She was a devoted teacher for many years and passionate about the value of reading. She stayed in touch with students and spoke fondly of her classroom years. She was a longtime member of St. John's Lutheran Church where over the years she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, and remained active in the Missionary Circle. She held her faith and her friends close to her heart and was always grateful for all the people and blessings in her life. Mary June loved animals. She supported Doris Day Animal League, Farm Sanctuary, PETA and many organizations that rescue and help animals. She fervently wanted people to learn about horse neglect, abuse and abandonment: "If people knew how bad it is, I know they would help" she often said. After a recent hospital visit she smiled and said, "I've lived a charmed life". As she lived, she passed with grace and peace. Preceded in death by her parents Naomi and Knute Lothberg, Mary June is survived by her daughter Naomi Estes-Tullo. son-in-law Pat Tullo, grandson Patrick Tullo Jr., and her beloved cat, Dickens. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of the United States. Funeral arrangements by Crescent Tide, (651) 315-8214.

Published on November 11, 2013