Mary Ellen Lemoine

Mary Lemoine, a cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, was born on April 4, 1953, and passed away at home on Wednesday, December 24, 2025 surrounded by her children.

A fiercely unique and memorable presence, Mary lived a life wholly on her own terms. She was a person of deep convictions, strong opinions, and remarkable resilience. For those who knew Mary, there was never a dull moment; Mary’s life was a tapestry of strength, independence, and deep complexity. She faced challenges with resilience and lived on her own terms, a quality that sometimes made her difficult to understand—but also unforgettable.

Mary was perhaps best known for her unwavering dedication to gardening. When focused on her flower garden, Mary exhibited a brilliance and attention to detail that was truly admirable. She had a quiet love for animals and a deep appreciation for the simple things in life.

Mary’s life was shaped by personal challenges and an independent spirit that sometimes created distance between her and others. Yet, she had a fierce spirit and a capacity for love that she poured into her family. She taught her children the importance of self-reliance, hard work, and speaking their minds. Her laughter was distinctive, her presence undeniable, and her influence lasting. Mary is survived by her children, Tami (Darryl) Chapman, Emily Coghlin (Ron Snider), Jeremy (Anna) Lemoine, and Zackery Lemoine (Bobbi Sue Kruchten). She was a proud grandmother to 7, a beloved bonus grandmother to 6, and a cherished great-grandmother to 4. Sister, Pat Gilchrest, brother Roger Gullickson and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Ethel Gullickson; her daughter, Tiffany Lemoine; her sister, Nancy Jager; sister-in-law, Jo Gullickson; brother-in-law, Ray Gilchrest and nephew Steve Gullickson.

In honoring Mary’s memory, we choose to embrace the brilliant light and the deep, intricate humanity that defined her. She was not without her edges—strong-willed and at times challenging—but those qualities were part of what made her unforgettable. We hold close the sound of her unique laughter and the way she left an indelible mark on those around her

Funeral Services for Mary will be Saturday, January 10th at Oak Street Chapel in Brainerd, MN. Visitation will begin at 11 am with her funeral service to follow at 12pm.

“Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass but learning to dance in the rain.”