Mary Francis Schaleben

The world lost a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and sister, Mary Schaleben, on September 22, 2021.  Mary battled cancer bravely for 19 months, but it never stopped her from giving out the best hugs.  She put everyone before herself. Mary died in her home under the Care of Hospice of the Red River Valley surrounded by her loved ones. 

Mary was born in Detroit Lakes, MN on April 9, 1940 to William Otto Piechowski and Alma Marie (Iverson) Piechowski.  After graduating from high school in 1958, Mary chased her dream of piano by attending Sherwood School of Music in Chicago in the Fall of 1958.  She also attended business college for a short time.  Mary met her husband, Wilhelm (Bill) Schaleben and was married at Holy Rosary Church in Detroit Lakes on 7/2/1958.  Together, they had 3 children, Lee, Valerie, and Wilhelm (Billy) Schaleben.

Mary loved spending time with her family more than anything in the world.  She was an amazing grandmother to Alex, Natalie, Jessica, and Jayme. Together they loved the outdoors and spent time playing golf, skiing, riding bicycles, attending music events and vacationing in the Black Hills.  She also loved getting together with old classmates, the cousins and sister on yearly outings.  She was a skilled piano player and loved music of all kinds. 

Mary is survived by her husband, Bill, her sister Donna Marie (Piechowski) Pappenfus of Walker, MN and William Stanley Piechowski of St. Michael, MN. 

Friends are invited to say a final goodbye to Mary at West Kjos Funeral Home in Detroit Lakes, MN on October 1, 2021.  The funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service.  A lunch will be served following the ceremony.

Mary's Memorial Folder