Obituary for Mary Ann Netland

Mary Ann Netland (née Stewart), 74, of Maple Grove, Minnesota, passed away suddenly but peacefully on Wednesday, August 23, 2017. Wife, Mother, and Nana, Mary Ann was unfailingly kind to people and animals alike.

Growing up in Connecticut, Mary Ann developed a love of art and New England that she shared with her family throughout their lives. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Bridgeport University, and started her career as a substitute teacher in a secondary school. It was there that she met Jack, eventually marrying and moving with him to Minnesota. After spending some time in Renville, Minnesota where she taught art and English at the secondary level, they moved to the Twin Cities Area and had two daughters.

After staying home to raise Tricia and Janna, Mary Ann took an interest in antiquing. Interest begat skill and Mary Ann built a business from her self-described “junking” habits. It was a creative outlet for her, and an activity that she pursued with passion. She built treasured friendships within the community of Antiques and collectibles dealers.

Spending summers and Christmas with family in Connecticut was one of her great joys. She and Jack spent many happy hours on the tennis court together. They loved to travel to Key West to escape Minnesota’s winter for a few weeks each year.

Throughout her life, family was first. She spoke of them with pride that was palpable. She taught her daughters the meaning of the phrase “Loving unconditionally.” Her grandchildren lit her up like a beacon in every minute they were together. They knew to look in her purse for the jellybeans she was certain to have, and the family dogs always knew there was a biscuit or treat forthcoming.

She leaves a legacy of kindness, compassion, and integrity.

She is survived by her husband, Jack Netland; Daughters Tricia Netland Wencel (Kevin Wencel) and Janna Netland Lover (Joe Lover); and grandchildren Campbell, Isaac, Jacey, and Addie; as well as every dog, cat, chipmunk, bird, or any other thing with fur or feathers that ever crossed her path.

Celebration of Life Memorial Service 11AM Tuesday, August 29, 2017, at Advent Lutheran Church, 9475 Jefferson Highway, Maple Grove, MN 55369.

“Like a wild flower; she spent her days, allowing herself to grow, not many knew of her struggle, but eventually all; knew of her light.”

― Nikki Rowe