Mary Theresa (Fischer) Terwey

Mary Terwey died peacefully at her home on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Mary was 80 years old.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, September 20, 2024, at the St. Mary's of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Long Prairie, at 12:00 PM/ Noon. Visitation will take place at the church one hour before the service. There will be no burial at this time.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Knute Nelson Memorial Foundation, 2209 Jefferson St., Suite 201, Alexandria, MN 56308

Mary Theresa (Fischer) Terwey passed away on August 28th, 2024. She was resting peacefully in her home, surrounded by her husband of 58 years, Joseph, and their three children.

Mary was born on April 3rd, 1944 in St. Cloud, Minnesota. She grew up in St. Cloud, where she attended St. Mary’s Grade School, followed by St. Francis High School in Little Falls, Minnesota. Mary graduated from the College of St. Catherine (’66).  

Mary married Joseph (Joe) Terwey at St. Mary’s Cathedral in St. Cloud, Minnesota, in the summer following graduation. In 1967, she spent time teaching in Canton, Mississippi, where she met Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA, an evangelist for African Americans in the Catholic Church, who was an inspiration in her faith journey.

During Joe’s military service in Vietnam, Mary had their oldest son, Jason. Upon Joe’s return, they moved to Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, where they had two more children, Danny and Katie. In 1974, they moved to Long Prairie, buying the farm of Joe’s parents, Lee and Josephine Terwey.

Mary served as an AARP Volunteer Tax-Aide for 20+ years and as a Federal Employee for the U.S. Census Bureau for 10+ years. She volunteered at her home parish at St. Mary’s Church, including years of overnight prayer at the Adoration Chapel.

Mary was an avid reader, bridge player and a wonderful host to friends and family. She was kind, generous and well-loved in her family and community. Cherished traditions included hosting Terwey and Fischer family reunions on the farm and an annual sunfish fry for neighbors. She enjoyed the friendship and camaraderie with close friends, including time spent with the volleyball crew and beating the family in a game of 10-point. 

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Cyril and Mary (Heim) Fischer, and siblings, Donald (Joan), Sister Rita Mae, FSPA, and James (Irene). Survivors include husband Joe, sons Jason Terwey (Cyd Reuter) and Danny Terwey (Heidi), daughter Katie Brothers (Gary), grandchildren Ren and Levi Terwey and Ellie, Abby, and Harrison Brothers. Surviving siblings include Margie Kersting (Bernie), Eugene (Joanne) and Mark (Fidelina).

Memorials may be sent to Knute Nelson Foundation at 2209 Jefferson St., Suite 201, Alexandria, MN 56308. We are extremely grateful for Knute Nelson’s Hospice team who helped us care for Mary and allowed her to remain at home.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.