Mary Kay Heggen

Mary Kay Heggen, 68, of Park River passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family—including her extended work family from First Care Health Center—after courageously facing ALS on her own terms, just as she did everything in life.

Born on March 12, 1957, in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, to Bernice and Joseph “Butch” Arens, Mary was the oldest of five children and proudly lived up to her role as big sister. She graduated from Mahnomen High School in 1975 and went on to attend the University of Minnesota Crookston, where she earned her Associate’s degree.

On July 12, 1980, Mary was united in marriage to Bruce Edwin Heggen in Mahnomen, Minnesota. Mary was an incredible wife, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and strong family values. They raised three daughters—Bethany Kay, Stacey Jean, and Jennifer Anne—who were her greatest joy. Her pride and love grew even deeper with the arrival of her grandchildren, who lit up her world.

Mary dedicated 42 years of her career to St. Ansgar’s/First Care Health Center, where she worked in medical records. Known for her thoroughness and persistence, she was the person everyone could count on to get things done—and done right. Over the years, her coworkers became her second family, and her work was truly a labor of love.

An active and caring member of her community, Mary gave freely of her time and talents. She was involved in 4-H, the Ladies’ Auxiliary at both her church and the hospital, the figure skating board, and whatever was needed at her kids’ activities. If there was something to be done, Mary was there—organizing, helping, and making sure things ran smoothly.

Mary loved to decorate for the holidays, turning her home into a warm and welcoming space full of color, sparkle, and heart. She also loved to craft and sew, always working on something special for the people she loved. Mary was especially known for her adorable hooded bath towels—each one made with care, creativity, and her signature touch. Her projects weren’t just crafts; they were heartfelt gifts that brought smiles and comfort to everyone lucky enough to receive them. And true to her tender heart, she most likely had a tear in her eye for one reason or another—whether from laughter, pride, or simply being moved by the moment.

Mary was a spitfire—strong-willed, quick-witted, and full of life. Her faith, family, and friends meant everything to her. She gave ALS a run for its money, meeting every challenge with courage, humor, and grace. Her laugh—instantly recognizable and joyfully contagious—could fill a room and brighten even the hardest of days. There was rarely any question where Mary stood; she was always happy to share her opinion, and even happier when you agreed with her.

Her legacy lives on in the love she gave, the laughter she inspired, and the countless lives she touched through her kindness, generosity, and strength.

She is survived by her husband, Bruce; daughters Bethany (Lucas) of Cameron, WI, Stacey of Devils Lake, ND, and Jennifer (Rory) of Beulah, ND; grandchildren Mac, Bre, Ellie, Liam, Weston, and Walker; her siblings Nancy (Brian) Benshoof and Margie (Mike) Janke and many dear friends and extended family. She was preceded in death by many loved ones, including her parents, Bernice and Joseph “Butch” Arens, sister Gail, and brother Danny.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, October 29th from 5-7, with a Rosary at 7pm at Tollefson Funeral Home in Park River. A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Park River on Thursday, October 30th at 11am with a gathering one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to First Care Health Center or St. Mary’s Catholic Church, in honor of Mary’s spirit of giving and resilience.  Inurnment will be at the Calvary Cemetery of Park River.