WINNEBAGO — Mary Jane Engelby, age 90, of Winnebago, passed away peacefully Friday, Aug. 7, 2020, at Parker Oaks Assisted Living in Winnebago.

A graveside service will be held 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at Rosehill Cemetery in Winnebago, with Don Bird officiating. Social distancing will be observed. Bring a mask and a lawn chair.

Spencer-Owen Funeral Home in Winnebago has been entrusted with her care. Online condolences can be left at www.spencer-owen.com

Mary was born May 28, 1930, in Winnebago, to Lee and Lila (Gates) Morgan. She was one of 10 children. Mary graduated from Winnebago High school in 1948.

She was married to Gerald Engelby for almost 66 years until his death. They made their home on the farm in Winnebago in 1959 where she lived until the last four years of her life. Mary helped on the farm, from driving tractor, running errands and cooking meals for the farm helpers.

She especially enjoyed her vegetable and flower gardens. She was always willing to share her produce and the roses that she took much pride in. Mary enjoyed sharing these items with shut-ins while making her rounds visiting. She would always drop everything to help a person in need. In her later years, she liked to go to town and have coffee with her friends.

Mary loved her family dearly, especially her grandchildren. She always wanted to provide for them as she remembered growing up not having many luxuries.

She also enjoyed bowling, the occasional vacation and, of course, mowing her yard.

Mary was a member of the Winnebago Garden Club and several other organizations. First and foremost, though, was her love for the Lord and the church. Mary was a long-time member of the United Methodist Church and was very active there, helping with funerals, weddings, teaching Sunday school and serving on several committees.

Left to cherish such wonderful memories are her son, Gary (Linda) Engelby of Winnebago; grandchildren, Jason (Melissa) Engelby and Britny (Guy) Zastrow; great-grandchildren, Drake and Jake Ryan Engelby, Talin Thate, Levi and Ethan Zastrow; sister, Hazel (George) Curtis; and many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and eight siblings.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred UHD Hospice, Genesis Classical Academy, Winnebago Area Museum or donor’s choice.

The family would especially like to thank the staff at Friendship Court, Parker Oaks and UHD Hospice for their outstanding care.

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