Mary Jane Sorenson

Mary Sorenson died peacefully at home on September 28th in Salem, Oregon at the age of 73.
Mary is survived by her husband, Richard; children, David Sorenson and Lisa Toney; grandchildren, Bastian Sorenson and Daniel Toney. Mary is preceded in death by her parents and brother, Don Lucas.
Mary was born on October 31st 1944 in Dayton, Ohio to Elmer and Bess Lucas. She graduated from University of Colorado in 1966 with a degree in education. She married Richard Sorenson, whom she met while working on her Masters of Education at the University of Colorado, in 1968.   She taught elementary school in Colorado before moving to Monmouth, Oregon.  The couple welcomed two children; David and Lisa, into their home and Mary paused her teaching career to dedicate her time to the family.  Mary completed her Masters of Education at Western Oregon State College (now Western Oregon University) in 1983.  Mary taught elementary through middle school in the Central School district, focusing on special education until she retired in 1999.
Mary loved gardening, music and spending time with her grandchildren. She was an active member of AAUW, Monmouth Social Hour Club and Friends of the Monmouth Library for many years holding several positions in each group.  Mary was a dedicated member of St Mark Lutheran Church in Salem and volunteered teaching Sunday school, ushering and serving as communion assistant.
A memorial service is scheduled for 2pm on October 13th at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Salem, with reception following. Pastor Charles Mantey will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Mary’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to OHSU Knight Cancer Institute or Lumina Hospice. Memories and condolences welcomed at www.farnstrommortuary.com
. The family would like to thank Salem Hospital, Lumina Hospice and New Horizons for their care and dedication.
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