Mary Alice Wood Steffen

Mary Alice Wood Steffen of Ruthven passed away peacefully in her home on July 25, 2021 at the age of 73. Mary was born on May 25, 1948 in Emmetsburg, IA to Andrew and Clara Wood (Rowlet). On June 2, 1973 she married Marvin Steffen. They raised two children, Matthew and Christy on an acreage northeast of Ruthven.

Mary was a stay at home mom and active in volunteering for the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School, the local 4-H group, the PTA, and many other extracurricular activities around town. After raising her children, Mary went on to become a caregiver/housekeeper for many families in the area. Her quick wit and compassion were a bright light to those around her. After she retired, Mary went on to run her own business, Lost Island Jewelry. Making jewelry was her passion and an outlet where her natural creativity and love for nature and beauty intertwined to develop unique and timeless works of art. She was most at home in nature, gardening and nurturing plants and once spring hit, if she had a free minute and was able, she could be found digging in the soil. Mary cherished her family, her hobbies, and helping others. She tirelessly supported local businesses and organizations in her community and when in her presence, her unconditional love and care was tangible.

Her father, Andrew; her mother Clara; and her stepfather Ken preceded Mary in death. She is survived by her husband, Marvin, son Matthew (Jayme) Steffen, daughter Christy Steffen, siblings Susan (Tom) Leonard, Patricia (Paul) Charlson, Barbara (Jay) Mugge, Andrew Wood, Janet (Keith) McLaughlin, Jennifer (Peter) Ciprari and 3 grandchildren (Noah, Carson, and Ally) along with numerous beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. The family will hold a private gathering prior to scattering her ashes. An online memorial has been created at  www.never-gone.com/memorials/maryasteffen for friends and family who wish to honor her memory. Please visit the Tributes section for details on ways to honor Mary.

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