Mary Ann Illa

Mary Ann Illa, age 91 of Miesville, died peacefully at home on Sunday morning, February 26, 2017, following an extended illness. Mary Ann, the daughter of Thomas and Lillian (Anderson) Brennen, was born on December 5, 1925, in Red Wing. Mary Ann attended Red Wing High School and graduated with the class of 1944. Following her graduation, she first started as a "Rosie the Riveter" in St. Cloud, and later worked at Minnesota Mining, now 3M. On May 21, 1955, Mary Ann was united in marriage to Francis W. Illa at St. Josephs Catholic Church in Miesville. They enjoyed many years together and worked side-by-side at the farm and raising their family. Francis later preceded her in death on March 2, 1997. Mary Ann also worked at Welch Village in the kitchen where she was well-known for her special-k bars. She was a great family historian and loved taking pictures of her family during the many events in life. Mary Ann also enjoyed traveling, bowling, playing bingo, and cooking for her family and friends. Lets not forget, she always made time for a game of cards too! She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Francis; her nephew, Dale Illa; her sister, Gerry OConnor; her son-in-law, Tom Sieben; and by her brothers and sisters-in-law. Mary Ann is survived by her children, Ann (Bill) Vieths, Joan Illa, and Kathy (Ken) Nelson; her grandchildren, Chris (Laura) Vieths, Catie (Joel) Godfredsen, Travis Vieths, Teresa Vieths, Katelyn Nelson (fianc, Logan), Kelsey Nelson, and Mikayla Sieben; hergreat grandchild, Emerson Godfredsen; her sister, Kay (Ron) Gilbertson; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 13, 2017 at St. Josephs Catholic Church in Miesville, with Father Terry Beeson officiating. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be held 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, March 12, 2017and also for one hour prior to the service AT CHURCH. In lieu of flowers, Mary Anns family request memorials be made to Miesville Fire Department, Hastings Total Life Care Center, or to the donors choice in her memory. Arrangements are being completed by Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation Services of Hastings.