Mary Basswood

Mary Basswood

May 08, 1943 - August 23, 2019

Mary Basswood, age 76, of Ponsford, MN, died Friday, August 23, 2019, at Essentia Health in Fargo, ND.

Mary Joan was born May 8, 1943, in Badoura Township in Hubbard County, MN, the daughter of George Bellanger and Susan Spears. Most of her life was spent in the Ponsford area. She attended school and graduated from Park Rapids High School. Following high school, Mary was united in marriage to Richard Basswood Sr. and they were blessed with five children. When her children became school age, Mary furthered her education by receiving her Associates Degree in Business through Moorhead State University. She worked as a Community Health Representative for the White Earth Tribal Council for 30 years. Mary later worked as a security guard for the Shooting Star Casino for four years before retiring from the workforce. Her husband, Richard, passed away in 2001 and Mary remained in their home in Ponsford. Mary was then blessed with the companionship of Donald Hardy Sr. and together they have spent several wonderful years together.

When Mary wasn’t working or spending time with her family, she enjoyed the simple life at home watching television. A few of her favorites were Walker Texas Ranger, Gun Smoke and the Minnesota Twins Baseball. She also spent time doing crossword puzzles and reading the Enquire Magazine. Mary loved to visit, go for drives and spend time with family, especially her grandchildren. Other pastimes included going to the casino, shopping and playing Bingo.

Mary is survived by her children: Richard Basswood Jr., Rhonda Basswood, Roberta Basswood and Randall (Desiree Freadrich Basswood), all of Ponsford; her significant other, Donald Hardy Sr. also of Ponsford; 18 grandchildren; 54 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Mary was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Robert Basswood; one brother, Benedict; one sister, Velda; one grandson; one granddaughter and four great-grandchildren.

A Graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 28, 2019, at Breck Memorial Episcopal Cemetery in Ponsford, MN.