MaryNell Gust, 82, of International Falls, MN, died on August 10th, 2022, at The Willows of Arbor Lakes, Maple Grove, MN, from the prolonged effects of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. In hospice care for three weeks prior to her death, MaryNell died peacefully in her sleep with her family by her side.
MaryNell was bom April 23rd, 1940, in International Falls, MN, to her parents, Edward and Nell Simon. A lifelong resident of Int’l Falls, she attended St. Thomas Catholic School and graduated from Falls High School with the class of 1958. On June 25th, 1960, she was united in marriage to Joseph Gust. MaryNell was a proud homemaker while raising their family, and she later worked for Sunshine Daycare and Head Start Program. MaryNell was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a sister, aunt, well-loved member of the community, and friend to many. MaryNell often volunteered and participated in many fundraising efforts within the community by preparing homemade spaghetti dinners. She was a member of Catholic Daughters and Red Hat Society. MaryNell enjoyed being actively involved in the community and church within which she was raised. At home she was an avid quilter and had a green thumb for gardening. MaryNell found joy in spending time with family and friends and a good game of cards.
MaryNell was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Joe of 55 years, granddaughter Kayla Farese, brothers Edward Simon, Tom Simon, and Ron Simon; sisters Noella (Simon) Boyes, Rose Marie (Simon) Stolz, and Renee (Simon) Carey. She is survived by sons John (Diane) Gust, Joe (Brenda) Gust, daughters Janis (Paul) Farese, Jill (Pete) Diwi, Jennifer (Joe) Juergens, 16 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren; brothers Leonard Simon, Frank Simon, Jerry Simon, Larry (Bev) Simon; sister Irene (Simon) Rauer; sister-in-law Ruby June Simon; nieces, nephews, and much more family.
Please direct In Memorial donations for MaryNell Gust to St. Thomas Catholic Church and School.
The Funeral Mass of the Resurrection will be held on Thursday, September 15th, 2022, at St. Thomas Catholic Church at 11:00 AM. Interment will be at St. Thomas Catholic Cemetery.
