Mary Elizabeth Oliver

Mary Elizabeth Oliver, 90, of Rochester peacefully left this world on March 13, 2014, at Maple Manor Nursing Home. Mary was born to Charles and Alvina (Potas) Schultz on December 5, 1923, in Wentworth, South Dakota. She graduated from Wentworth High School, and then went on to attend the Sioux Valley Hospital School of Nursing and worked as a nurse at the Royal C. Johnson Veterans Hospital for many years. Mary was united in marriage to Gerald Oliver on April 21, 1962, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Flandreau, SD. They resided in Sioux Falls, SD for a few years where they were blessed with a daughter, Nancy, before eventually making their home in Rochester. For eight years, she then worked alongside her husband running the Wood Motor Lodge. She was the most selfless woman, always tending to the needs of others. She was active in the church, and greatly enjoyed attending Saturday evening services. She was involved in the prayer shawl ministry, and the annual Christmas Tea was always a highlight each year. Most of all, she greatly enjoyed spending time with her family and keeping in touch with her loved ones afar. Mary is survived by her husband, Gerald; her daughter, Nancy Nelson (Dan) of Rochester; her three sisters, Ruth Ludgate (Tom), of Sioux Falls, SD, Anna Mae Fish, of Alexandria, VA, Janet Evers (Karl) of Boise, ID; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved grandchildren, Katie Nelson and Erik Nelson. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Russell and Arvin, whom she adored very much. A private graveside service will be held for immediate family at a later date. Memorials are suggested to Seasons Hospice, Bethel Lutheran Church, Rochester and the American Cancer Society.