Mary C. Ess

Mary C. Ess

Age 71, of Minneapolis, passed away on April 30, 2023, at Fairview Southdale hospital, surrounded by her family.

Mary was born on January 30, 1952, in Baltimore, MD to Ellen and Richard (Dick) Ess. She was raised in north Minneapolis along with her 5 siblings Mike, Julie, Keith, Steve, and Elaine.  

Being the eldest daughter in her family, it was only natural that Mary went into nursing. Her caring and gentle nature were well suited for her work in maternal and infant health. Mary worked for 37 years in the NICU. The friendships she made during that time were some of her most cherished.

She raised two children, Joel and Carrie, who she encouraged to travel and explore the world as she did when she moved to northern California in the 70s. She was secretly very pleased when both children eventually returned to live in Minneapolis.

Mary reconnected with her high school sweetheart, Doug Cummings, at age 48. They spent the last 23 years making up for lost time; going to Twins games, traveling up north, going for walks and spending time with their blended family. 

Mary will be remembered most for her kindness, compassion, sense of humor and the goofy things she would say, the twinkle in her eye, and her incredible pies.

Survived by children Joel and Carrie; partner, Doug; siblings Mike (Florence), Julie (Kent), Keith (Rosa), Steve (Janine) and Elaine as well as many other beloved family members and friends. Proceeded in death by her parents Ellen and Richard (Dick); brother, Paul.

Visitation May 19, 5-8 pm at Gearty-Delmore Funeral Chapel in Robbinsdale. Service at Lakewood Memorial Chapel, May 20th 1:00 pm. Visitation will be one hour prior to the chapel service. Interment at Lakewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to March of Dimes supporting maternal and infant health, a charity close to Mary’s heart.

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