May 26, 1936 – September 9, 2026
Mary Terese Schoenecker Stevens of Buffalo, MN passed away Wednesday September 9, 2026, at 90 years of age. She was born in Spokane, WA on May 26, 1936 to Norbert and Mary Schoenecker. She was the 3rd of ten children.
Her family moved to Maple Lake in 1940, where Mary graduated from Maple Lake High School. She married Dick Stevens in 1956 and they raised 6 children.
Mary worked at Burklands Clothing Store from 1973-1981, then Cohen’s Department Store from 1982-1992. Mary always had a love for fashion; people came from miles to be styled by her or even just to see what she was wearing that day. After Cohen’s, she then went to work for the family business, Stevens Drilling & Environmental Services Inc, from 1993 – 2013 when she retired.
After her retirement, she was able to take the time to spent endless hours with her family. She gave her time, love and energy without hesitation and with extreme dedication. Mary was also very generous and supportive of her community in many ways, including various forms of the arts. Her laugh, encouraging words, and her love will be missed by everyone who knew her.
Preceded in death by: her husband Dick and her daughter Patty (Stevens) Hankinson
Survived by: Michael (Jean) Stevens, Tim (Tamara) Stevens, Lisa (Kevin) Bursch, Mary Sue Stevens and Jeff Aldrich, Jeannie (Dan) Hintz. 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
Wake is on Thursday November 5th, 2026 at Peterson Chapel 3-6pm
Celebration of life is on Friday November 6th, 2026 at the Buffalo Legion 1-5pm
Oh Mary’s family…I have no words for this loss and I’m holding you all in my mind and in my heart. Please be extra good to yourselves. You all have endured so much in a very short period of time.
Oh Steven’s family, I am sad to read this about Mary. She was always so friendly & kind when I’d see & talk with her at Cohens. Loved Dick & Mary, such happy & friendly people.
I am comforted knowing her, Dick & Patty are reunited. May God comfort you all.
Dear Stevens Family, you have our deepest sympathy on the loss of your mom. She was a special lady and friend to my mom when they worked together at Cohen’s. Mary was always so friendly and perfect in every way. Your family has had a very difficult year. God’s Blessings.
Mary was a special lady. I worked with her 50 years ago at Burklands. That was my first “real” job. She was such a wonderful mentor and friend. Prayers for all.
Stevens family, I am so sorry to hear of Marys passing. I worked with her at Burklands and she was so nice to work with. I swear your parents were the kindest & nicest folks ever. She will be missed by many. My heart goes out to you all. We will keep you all in our thoughts & prayers.
You have my deepest sympathy on the loss of your mom.
I worked with Mary at Burklund’s. She in women’s, me in the shoe dept. We spent many fun lunches at Varner’s and Bridgemans. Lots of good memories
May she rest in Our Lord’s loving arms.
To the family, I understand how hard this is and send prayer to you all. The love story of Mary and Dick is complete and they have each other again. This doesn’t make it easier for those left behind. May you find support from each other. God bless.
My deepest sympathy for you all. Mary was one of the most beautiful ladies and touched may hearts with her kind words and smile. I am truly blessed to have known her 🙏
I will miss your mom very much. I used to clean her house every Friday. She was the most gracious and generous lady I have ever met. She was my favorite client. My thoughts are with you at this time. She will be always be remembered.
Dear Family,
Mary was one CLASSY LADY. Always put together with beautiful clothes and jewelry. Such a warm smile she carried and ready to visit with you whenever she ran into you.
Mary gave me the most beautiful bracelet for Christmas one year when I did her hair, I will cherish it forever and always think of her when I wear it.
Mary will be greatly missed by so many.
Prayers for comfort and strength during this time.
Love and Blessings to you all.
God speed Mary!