The family of Mary Jean is sad to announce her passing in Arcata, CA, on March 30, 2024 at the age of 95.
Mom was born in White Rock, SD, on Dec. 7, 1928 to Albert and Ella Johnson, growing up in Wahpeton, ND. She was soon joined by two sisters, Patricia and Janet. She grew up during the great depression, then World War II. She met, then married the love of her life, Navy-Boy Bob Ames, Jr., soon moving West to Crescent City, CA. Together, with Bob's parents and brother, they owned and operated the Bob Ames Company for many years. They had and raised four children: Guy, Brad, Carolyn and Kathy.
Mom had a cheery disposition, with a beautiful smile that warmed those around her. She knew hardship, having her 13th birthday preempted by the Pearl Harbor attack, her husband being recalled to the Korean war, and the 1964 Tsunami. These, and other incidents, did not stop her optimistic personality from shining though. Her church family, Grace Lutheran, was her solid rock of strength for her entire life. There, she participated in many activities and roles, but her favorite was teaching nursery Sunday School for many years. Her faith in a loving and forgiving God was her cornerstone throughout her life.
Mom loved her family fiercely, always supporting, enjoying, and participating in her kid’s activities. Music education was always the highest priority, which we all appreciated. She had a well-kept garden, cultivating pretty flowers and delicious vegetables. She enjoyed camping trips, traveling to visit family members, and spending lovely days at the Gasquet cabin with all of the relatives. She was a super-host entertainer at her home, preparing wonderful meals for many guests over the years. Everyone felt welcomed.
Mary Jean and Bob had a happy marriage for over 74 years. They took joy in all forms of dancing, especially Square Dancing. They both sang in local Barbershop groups. They made many good friends through these activities. In retirement, they traveled, enjoyed the grandchildren, and volunteered, with mom serving as a Pink Lady at the hospital. She even bought an organ, teaching herself to play the keyboard.
We want to thank so many of you for your kindnesses shown to our mother as she aged. Jeannie, Donnie, Randy (RIP), and Russell for your frequent phone conver-sations. Sue Hutzell for your amazing hair skills over the years. Her church family, especially Bob and Debbie Cochran, Mike and Barb Allen, for your visits to her in McKinleyville. Dr. Blundell, along with the office staff for such good medical care.
We especially want to thank the entire staff of Timber Ridge Assisted Living of McKinleyville, who took care of her for the past two years. You meant so much to us and mom for treating her like family. She loved you all very much, as we do. The frequent musical events gave her such joy!
Mary Jean is survived by her daughters Carolyn (Mike) Walkner of McKinleyville, CA and Kathy (Ray) Sherwin of Crescent City, CA.
Grandchildren Tiffany (Elliott Ward, Cicely (Jaimal Kordes) Ames, Rachel (Brad) Armstrong, Adrian (Kate Garnaas) Sherwin, and Guy (Ashley) Walkner. Great - grandchildren Casey and Cody Pace, Houston Ward, Tatum, Baylee and Callie Walkner, Grady and Hadley Armstrong. Great - great grandchildren Sera and Solomon Lutrick, and Nathaniel Pace.
She is also survived by her beloved nieces and nephews from the Olson, Ames and Young families.
She was preceded in death by her husband Bob Ames, Jr.; parents Albert and Ella Johnson; sisters and spouses Patricia & Don Olson, Janet and Bert Ames, sons Guy Ames and Brad Ames.
Oh, may we truly, every yearreturn with love and tender care,The Blessings we from thee did share,Our Mother