Mary Claire Patnode

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Patnode, Mary Claire 63, of Maple Grove, passed away April 18, 2014 at Maple Grove Hospital surrounded by her family and friends. She was born July 18, 1950 in Bemidji, Minnesota to Paul and Eleanor Patnode. She attended St. Philip's Grade School, attended Mount St. Benedict in Crookston for two years and graduated from Bemidji High School in 1968. Mary earned her degree in Social Work from the College of St. Benedict in 1972 subsequently serving as a Social Worker in Wright County before earning her Masters in School Psychology from the University of Wisconsin, River Falls. Mary was also a licensed Psychologist. A Career employee of the Monticello School District for 25 years, she worked with Special Education students, eventually being instrumental in establishing Cornerstone Day Treatment Center for students who experience emotional and behavioral difficulties. She retired as Director of this Center in 2008. Mary married Harlan Johnson in Maple Grove on June 13, 1992. She enjoyed her gardens and many flowers, spending time at their lake cabin, travel, visiting with family and friends, and playing cards with their lake neighbors. Upon retirement, Mary became involved in many volunteer activities at her church - St. Joseph the Worker in Maple Grove as well as being active in the OLEY Foundation, becoming President in 2012 until the present. She was an advocate for individuals on Home Parenteral Nutrition. She is survived by her husband of nearly 22 years, Harlan Johnson of Maple Grove; step-son, Sam (Leslie) Johnson and their children, Ty and Cade; step-daughter, Jill (Jake) Krautkremer and their children, Abigail and Noah; sister, Dianne Seyler; brothers, Robert (Marilyn) Patnode, Monsignor Michael Patnode, Charles (Jean) Patnode; her aunts, Irene Grahek and Eileen Bergeron as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews, especially her niece Jennifer who was a big help to Mary and Harlan. She was preceded death by her parents, grandparents and brother-in-law, James Seyler. Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday 11 am at The Church of St. Joseph the Worker, 7180 Hemlock Lane, Maple Grove. Visitation Tuesday 4 to 7 pm AT CHURCH with memory sharing at 6:30. Also visitation Wednesday one hour prior to Mass. Private interment at a later date. Memorials will be directed to the OLEY Foundation in Mary's name. Gearty-Delmore 763-553-1411

Published on April 20, 2014