Call Now Button
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home

Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home

Plymouth, IN

Have Questions?
Call Us Now Available 24/7: (574) 936-2829
  • Home
  • Our Services
    • A Death Has Occurred
    • Burial Packages
    • Cremation Services
    • General Price List
    • Veterans
    • Planning Ahead
    • Planning Checklist
    • Plan Online Now
    • Pre-Planning Events
    • Our Traditions: Memorial Cookbook
    • Make a Payment
  • About Us
    • Welcome
    • Our History
    • Our Staff
    • Business Hours
    • Our Facilities
    • Employment Opportunities
  • Obituaries
    • Obituary Listing
    • Obituary Guidelines
    • Obituary Template
  • The Remembrance Centre
    • Urns
    • Keepsakes
    • Jewelry
    • Gifts
    • Flowers
    • Monuments
  • Resources
    • FEMA Covid-19 Funeral Assistance
    • LendingUSA
    • FAQ
    • Area Cemeteries
    • Planning Checklist
    • Celebration of Life
    • Resource Kit
    • Forms
  • Contact Us

Mary Ruth Girten

December 31, 1918 - March 9, 2013

Mary Ruth Nelson Girten, 94, died peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family at 7:15 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, 2013.
A longtime Plymouth resident, she was born on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 1918, in Plymouth, the third of eight children of Walter and Stella Mae Nelson.
“Mother planned to go to a party that night,” Mary often said. “I don’t think she ever forgave me for spoiling her evening,” she joked.
Mary’s life has been full of joy.
Mary graduated from Lincoln High School with the class of 1936. She worked at the telephone company during the war and, in 1963, after her youngest child started first grade, she went to work in the cafeteria of the Plymouth Community School System’s Lincoln Junior High School.
The children who went through her food line still remember her cheery greetings. They have said that if she thought you looked like you needed more nourishment, or were too thin to suit her, your scoop of potatoes became larger and the gravy thicker.
She retired in 1994 at the age of 76.
Mary met her beloved Harry in 1939, at a Memorial Day parade on South Michigan Street. Their first dates were at the Plymouth Skating Palace.
“I loved to skate and so did he,” she said.
They were married on January 26, 1941. The babies came…with a short interruption during the war…early on in their marriage. Son Larry was born in 1941, followed by Dee and Lynn in ’42 and ’43. Anne came in 1946 and Bill in ’47. Little Jane was born in 1950, Patti in ’52 and Bob in 1955.
Jane, at 10-months of age, died tragically in a household accident.
The Girten home was always open to neighborhood children. Their backyard was constantly filled with kids from all over the south side of Plymouth. They’d make up intramural and summer league basketball teams.
The boys called themselves the “South Siders.” Now grown men, they still do.
Mary always had extra food. Advice too, if you wanted it, or sympathetic silence, if you did not.
In 2006, Mary was honored as Mother of the Year by the Plymouth Pilot.
She was a lifetime member of the Trinity United Methodist Church. Hert church and her family were the most important things in her life.
Mary was always involved in her children’s activities. A huge sports fan, she was the longest holder of season tickets to home football and basketball games and a Big Red Boosters club member. She was known by all of the students as “Grandma Girten.”
Mary leaves a large and loving family to cherish her memory.
Sunday nights were special at Mary’s house.
For years, her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren would come to supper o Sunday evenings. There were usually upwards of 20 to 230 people there.
Mary would say that she never knew how many would come, but that all were welcome and welcome and “ we always seemed to have enough of everything.”
Especially love.
Her sons are: Larry (Amme) Girten: Bill (Donna) Girten, Bob Girten, all of Plymouth. The daughters are: Dee (Jim) Brown, Plymouth: Lynn (Steve) Jacox, Michigan City: Anne Gantz, Plymouth, and Patti Girten, Plymouth.
Two brothers also survive her death. They are: Wendell Nelson and Gordon Nelson. Three sisters survive as well: Joan (Fred) Wolff, Rosemarie Campbell and Helen “Mick” Nelson, all of Plymouth. Many nieces and nephews also survive.
Mary was preceded in death by a daughter, Jamie Louise Girten, her husband of 59 years, Harry Girten, and two brothers: James and Wayne Nelson.
Fourteen grandchildren survive Mary’s passing along with several step grand and great grandchildren.
The grandchildren are: Melanie (Tom) Van Dyke, Angie (Tim) Eads, Ronna (Ron) Sissel, Ted (Carol) Brown, Gina (James) Young, Nicole (Jason) Christy: Matt (Danielle) Gantz, Jill (Chris) Craig, Korey (Nate) Terronne, Blair Girten and Elizabeth, Katie (Brad) Clauss, Kasey (Evan) Record, Quentin (Ashley) Girten and Joel Girten.
Many thanks to special neighbors and care providers, Maureen and Cheryl.
Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 13, 2013, in the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 North Michigan Street, Plymouth.
Funeral services for Mary will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2013, in the funeral home with Rev. Mark Need, Pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church officiating.
Interment will follow in New Oakhill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Mary’s name may be made to the Center for Hospice Care, 112 S. Center St., Plymouth, IN 46563, the Plymouth High School Athletic Department, 1 Big Red Dr., Plymouth, IN 46563 and the Trinity United Church, 425 S. Michigan St., Plymouth, IN 46563

Offer Condolence

Print

Reader Interactions

Condolence Messages

  1. Susie Reinholt says

    March 10, 2013 at 4:50 pm

    Please accept my sincere condolences. You are all in my heart and prayers. I have nothing but fond memories of Harry and Mary Girten – what a truly blessed match now back together.

    Reply
  2. Jeanie Andrews Martin says

    March 10, 2013 at 7:50 pm

    My sympathy and prayers to the Girten Family. Mary was such a strong yet sweet loving lady! She is with the love of her life once again.

    Reply
  3. Kris Snyder says

    March 10, 2013 at 8:12 pm

    Sending prayers.

    Reply
  4. Paul Wendel says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:19 am

    My thoughts and prayers go out to the Girten family, what neat parents you had. Mary always seemed to remember me and my daughter even in her advanced years, what great parents you all had, she will be missed by all.

    Paul & Olivia Wendel

    Reply
  5. Marie J. Albertson says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:20 am

    Mary was always so joyful and brought a lot of love to all who had the pleasure of running into her. She was a shining example of motherhood.

    Reply
  6. Mary Beth Houin, Center for Hospice care says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:40 am

    So very sorry for the loss of your mother. I wish I could have gotten to know her. She sounds like a really neat lady, from what all you had told me. I feel very blessed to have been part of her care and to have gotten to know all of you. God Bless and my deepest sympathy to all the family.

    Reply
  7. Sue Chase says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:58 am

    It is with sadness that Larry and I read of Mary\’s passing. She and Harry were such wonderful role models for their family and community. Also she was a faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church with her family through the years.She was always so happy, and it showed in her every day life. She will be missed by all of you, but oh remember all of those family gatherings in their home and cherish them.

    Reply
  8. Paula Babcock says

    March 11, 2013 at 10:29 am

    Dear Angi and Tim,
    We are so sorry about your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
    Paula and Ron Babcock

    Reply
  9. Francie & Dennis Beville says

    March 11, 2013 at 11:18 am

    Family Girten…please accept our sympathy in the loss of your loved one. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Reply
  10. Kathy Alexander says

    March 11, 2013 at 3:30 pm

    Dearest Girten Family, My sincere condolences to you all. Mr. and Mrs. Girten raised so many wonderful members of this community and that continues to grow with her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. You all have been blessed with her love. May all those memories bring you comfort.
    Sincerely, Kathy & Family

    Reply
  11. Anonymous says

    March 11, 2013 at 7:25 pm

    Our condolences to all the Girten family on the loss of your mother. She was special and we liked her so much.

    Mary Jane(Parsons)Weidler &
    Ray Pynaert

    Reply
  12. Mary Spoor says

    March 11, 2013 at 8:09 pm

    Dear Angi and Tim,
    You are in my prayers during this difficult time.
    Thinking about all of you.
    Mary

    Reply
  13. Kim Wright Morrison says

    March 11, 2013 at 8:55 pm

    I\’ve known Mary for as long as I can remember, and she was definitely one of the sweetest \”lunch ladies\” that I have ever known! Mary was always smiling and full of compliments. The \”Girten\” family is a very special group of people because of Mary!

    Reply
  14. Dale & Dorothy Heflick says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:23 pm

    May God bless the whole Girten family in this time of sorrow.

    Reply
  15. Barb Lowry says

    March 11, 2013 at 10:45 pm

    Our deepest sympathy to the Girten/Nelson families. You now have another angel in heaven looking down on you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. God be with you and give you peace.

    Barb & Bub Lowry

    Reply
  16. Janet Smith says

    March 11, 2013 at 11:38 pm

    Girten Family,
    My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Your mother was a loving, caring lady and will be missed. A mother with open arms to all the neighborhood kids.
    Janet Metsker Smith

    Reply
  17. Bob Albertson says

    March 12, 2013 at 2:20 am

    To the whole Girten family I very sorry to hear about Mary\’s passing she was one special lady
    And I\’m sure anyone that knew her would say the same and although I didn\’t see her much since I left Plymouth whenever I did she would welcome me with a big hug, she always treated me as part of the family & all I can think of are good memories that will be with me for the rest of my life
    She will be missed
    Take care, Bob Albertson

    Reply
  18. Kathy Tracy says

    March 12, 2013 at 7:05 am

    Dear Ann and family,

    We are so very sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. Ann, I remember her well and she was such a sweet caring lady.
    Please know you are all in our prayers and thoughts at this time.

    Sincerely,
    Kathy and Avonell Tracy

    Reply
  19. Janet (Murray) Johnson says

    March 12, 2013 at 7:50 am

    Lynn,
    I am so sorry to hear about your Mother. I remember her from years ago. She was a very sweet lady.

    J

    Reply
  20. Holli Shorter Pifer says

    March 12, 2013 at 7:55 am

    To The Girten Family,

    I have known all of you for many years and I know how much your mother meant to all of you. She will be greatly missed by this community. How wonderful she lived so long and touched so many lives. You will have many memories for years to pass down to your children and grandchildren.

    God bless all of you.

    Holli Shorter-Pifer

    Reply
  21. Bomber Wickey says

    March 12, 2013 at 9:28 am

    To All the Girten Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mary lived a long and fruitful life. Always had a kind word to say to everyone. Now she is in God\’s hands and her final resting place beside Harry. Prayers are coming your way during this difficult time.

    Reply
  22. Mary Lee Rudd says

    March 12, 2013 at 9:52 am

    To all the Girten family, I\’m so sorry for your loss. Although it was somewhat expected, it is none the less sad news. She was known and loved by many. We have all lost a great lady with Mary\’s passing.

    Sincerely,
    Mary Lee Rudd and family

    Reply
  23. Ray Uhlig Jr says

    March 12, 2013 at 10:37 am

    Larry, Patti, and the whole Girten family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time. Ray Uhlig Jr.

    Reply
  24. Lucille Kniggendorf Leachman says

    March 12, 2013 at 11:28 am

    My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mary . She was a dear lady and I was happy to have known her for many years .
    Lucy Kniggendorf Leachman

    Reply
  25. Roger & Cindi Eads says

    March 12, 2013 at 1:21 pm

    Thoughts are with your families. What a special lady she was!

    Reply
  26. Chuck & Marilee Johnson says

    March 12, 2013 at 6:32 pm

    Dear Girten Family, Chuck and I are in Florida. We are so sorry we can not be there to Celebrate Mary\’s Life! What a Wonderful Woman! We feel Blessed to have known Mary and will cherish all the memories. I believe we know each and every one of Mary\’s kids. Chuck probably had most of them in school, or sports events! Plus, knowing her sisters and brothers! Our sincere Sympathy to each and Everyone of YOU!
    Love,
    Chuck and Marilee Johnson

    Reply
  27. Linda & Dave Zeider says

    March 12, 2013 at 8:54 pm

    To a Special family of a Special Lady:

    Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Mary was a sweet and kind lady who will be missed by all. I will always remember her smile and kind words when I greeted her. Now she has joined Harry and they are looking down and smiling on all of us.

    Linda & Dave Zeider

    Reply
  28. Denny Dittrick says

    March 13, 2013 at 3:19 am

    Patti-

    I was so sorry to hear about your mom. She was a wonderful lady and a real sweetheart. She sure will be missed..
    .
    God Bless you and all your family,
    Denny Dittrick

    Reply
  29. Nanette Miller Durbin says

    March 13, 2013 at 7:16 am

    My Prayers and thoughts go out to you all . Your Mother is at peace and with the los of her life God Bless

    Reply
  30. Lucille kniggendorf leachman says

    March 13, 2013 at 7:36 am

    My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mary . She was a dear lady and I was happy to have known her for many years .
    Lucy kniggendorf LEACHMAN

    Reply
  31. Bonnie Beals Essex says

    March 13, 2013 at 8:50 am

    To Larry, Dee, Lynn, and Ann…..

    ……as well as the younger siblings I do not know, I was very sorry to learn of the loss of your dear mother. It is quite obvious, upon reading her obituary, that she will certainly be missed in the Plymouth community. What a BLESSING all of you had to have had such a wonderful mother and role model……and it sounds like your father was very special, too. I didn\’t know your folks well, but I do know that I have very special memories that I treasure of growing up with several of you Girten children. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time of loss.

    Bonnie

    Reply
  32. Becky Wade says

    March 13, 2013 at 9:31 am

    To All of The Girten Family

    We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Mary was a wonderful woman and so many of us are blessed to have known her. Your whole family was blessed to have parents like Harry and Mary. Cherish the
    memories which we know there are many. Our prayers are with you ALL during this difficult time.

    Love to you all,
    Al and Becky Wade

    Reply
  33. Jerry Ringle says

    March 13, 2013 at 10:06 am

    I played in that back yard and grew up with the Girten kids. Mr. and Mrs. Girten welcomed all who came and made everyone feel as though they had true worth. We should all learn by their example. We could use more Harry and Mary Girtens. Our prayers are with you.

    Jerry and Christine Ringle

    Reply
  34. Kathy Jung Parker says

    March 13, 2013 at 10:23 am

    To the whole Girten family,
    Our thoughts & prayers are with you all at this very difficult time. I did not know your Mom, but have known a lot of you \”kids\”. She must have been a wonderful person.
    Don & Kathy (Jung) Parker

    Reply
  35. Kay Murray Bauer says

    March 13, 2013 at 11:30 am

    Every morning stopped at Girten home to walk to school with Ann. A big, noisy happy family and Mary was certainly the heart of it all. Fond memories.

    Reply
  36. Julie Weidner says

    March 13, 2013 at 12:54 pm

    Dear Girten Family, Although it is always difficult to lose a beloved parent, we hope that each of you finds peace and comfort in the wonderful memories of Mary and the legacy of family closeness that will live on for generations to come.

    The Schroeder Family, Dave, Carol, Julie & Jan

    Reply
  37. Susan (Martin) Allen says

    March 13, 2013 at 1:28 pm

    Our thoughts and prayers for your Family. Your mom was a very special lady who will be greatly missed.

    Bill , Sue (Martin) Allen
    and Family

    Reply
  38. Rita and Jack Simpson says

    March 13, 2013 at 2:57 pm

    Jack and I were planning to come to Mary\’s viewing today, but we have been sick and thought
    better of it. I am much better, but Jack has really been sick for 2 days. He wanted me to send his
    love and special thoughts of Mary and what a great mother she was to all of them. He often speaks
    of how her door was always open to everyone and she always had enough food to feed anyone who
    came by. As we get older, we don\’t forget the kindness of others and truely Mary knew how to
    share the love. I know you will miss her greatly. You only have one mother in this life and that
    special bond does not end in death. We will be thinking of all of you at this time.

    Reply
  39. Richard and Marsha Warren Botset says

    March 13, 2013 at 3:16 pm

    We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. We are never ready to lose our loved ones, but it should be a comfort to know that she loved her family so very much. Please accept our sincere condolences.

    Reply
  40. Rick Derf says

    March 13, 2013 at 5:36 pm

    Mary was one of the sweetest people I ever met and she raised an outstanding family. She and Harry were Plymouth fixtures. I have many fond memories of their loving children My thoughts and prayers are with the family. She will be missed, but she will be waiting to greet us one day when we pass through the gates of Heaven. Mary lived a life centered on the Golden Rule; she was dedicated to others and did for them what she would have hoped someone would do for her if she were in their circumstance.

    Love,

    Rick and Marty Derf (Mr. & Mrs. Big Time Radio)

    Reply
  41. Donna Taber Whitmer says

    March 13, 2013 at 6:53 pm

    To The Girten Family,

    My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. May she soar with the angels…..

    Reply
  42. Cathy Glaub says

    March 13, 2013 at 7:05 pm

    Sorry to hear about your loss. Your mom was a wonderful person she always had a smile on her face when you would see her. I have a lot of great memories growing up on the south side.

    Reply
  43. Julie and Rick Gilley says

    March 13, 2013 at 11:01 pm

    Thoughts and prayers are with the Girten Family. So lucky to have known such special people!!! Mary and Harry are dancing in Heaven now!!

    Reply
  44. Steve Listenberger says

    March 14, 2013 at 3:01 am

    I was sorry to hear of Your loss. Mary was a good neighbor. I liked the white dog also. I will remember them both with a warm smile.

    Reply
  45. Bob & Ann Kershenr says

    March 14, 2013 at 9:42 am

    Our thought and prayers are with your family.

    Reply
  46. Jennifer & Chuck Houin says

    March 14, 2013 at 10:13 am

    Praying for the enitre Girten family to find peace in their hearts!
    Love always,
    Chuck, Jennifer, Luke and Grant Houin

    Reply
  47. Neys McFarland says

    March 14, 2013 at 3:42 pm

    Your mother was just the sweetest lady. May she rest in peace. Our thoughts are with her family.

    Reply
  48. Cliff Zeider says

    March 14, 2013 at 5:39 pm

    My Sympathy to the Girten family, I knew Mary while reading meters for NIPSCO and then when I moved into her neighbor hood. She was a lovely lady and always was nice to me. She will be missed by all who was lucky enough to have known her. Cliff Z Port St. Joe Fl.

    Reply
  49. Gregory A Amones says

    March 14, 2013 at 11:07 pm

    To Patti and the rest of the Girten family. Thinking of you and your family. Your mother was a fond memory of my school years and will continue to be as long as I think about my younger years.

    Reply
  50. Kay , John and Stephanie Metsker says

    March 16, 2013 at 9:36 am

    Dear Girten family our neighborhood lost a great lady. You could always expect a smile and a wave from Mary and Harry. I am so sorry for your loss, but you will always remember all the things that made her life so great and memorable.

    Reply
  51. Lucille Kniggendorf Leachman says

    March 16, 2013 at 11:28 am

    My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mary . She was a dear lady and I was happy to have known her for many years .
    Lucy Kniggendorf LEACHMAN

    Reply
  52. phil milner says

    March 17, 2013 at 7:07 pm

    Sympathy to all the Girtens, especially Larry and Dee, who Marilyn and I knew. I was part of the south side crew. I\’m glad both your parents had a long and full life, and you must have great memories. I\’ve not enjoyed going through condolences as much as these> I knew your mum best when I was your South Bend Tribune paperboy, in 1953 and – 4, as I figure it now. I would go to yoru kitchen door, collect my 35 cents, hang around for a siting of Dee, whom I loved then, and talk to Mrs. Girten,who knew I was very happy hanging out. She was a busy woman, but she\’d let me hang for a while. She\’d talk, and I\’d watch her deal with small crises, and then she\’d tell me I\’d better leave and finish my collecting. Mr. Girten, by the way, had a sidelight of fixing television sets in those earliest days of television, and he fixed ours until we left Dickson Street for Liberty Street. Love to all things Girten. Marilyn & Phil Milner

    Reply
  53. Becki Hampton Felten says

    March 20, 2013 at 2:58 pm

    I couldn\’t agree more with Phil Milner\’s observations. In reading the condolence messages, it is obvious what an impact Mary Ruth and Harry had on their family, their church and their community. I have fond memories of spending time in the Girten home. Growing up in the same church and knowing the \’older\’ Girten children, I was fortunate to be a part of their friendship and wisdom. I\’m sure you are all feeling the loss but it\’s hard to be sad when one has left such a wonderful legacy. She is at peace and reunited with Harry. What a reunion that must have been! To the Girten/Nelson families: May you all feel God\’s presence as you go on without Mary Ruth..

    Reply
  54. Tami Brock says

    March 25, 2013 at 4:05 pm

    Girten family,
    Our deepest sympathies to you on the loss of your momma. Her legacy will live on through you all! Peace and blessings in the days and months ahead as you remember her life and celebrate all that she stood for.
    Love, Art and Tami Brock

    Reply
  55. Susie Reinholt says

    March 10, 2013 at 4:50 pm

    Please accept my sincere condolences. You are all in my heart and prayers. I have nothing but fond memories of Harry and Mary Girten – what a truly blessed match now back together.

    Reply
  56. Jeanie Andrews Martin says

    March 10, 2013 at 7:50 pm

    My sympathy and prayers to the Girten Family. Mary was such a strong yet sweet loving lady! She is with the love of her life once again.

    Reply
  57. Kris Snyder says

    March 10, 2013 at 8:12 pm

    Sending prayers.

    Reply
  58. Paul Wendel says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:19 am

    My thoughts and prayers go out to the Girten family, what neat parents you had. Mary always seemed to remember me and my daughter even in her advanced years, what great parents you all had, she will be missed by all.

    Paul & Olivia Wendel

    Reply
  59. Marie J. Albertson says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:20 am

    Mary was always so joyful and brought a lot of love to all who had the pleasure of running into her. She was a shining example of motherhood.

    Reply
  60. Mary Beth Houin, Center for Hospice care says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:40 am

    So very sorry for the loss of your mother. I wish I could have gotten to know her. She sounds like a really neat lady, from what all you had told me. I feel very blessed to have been part of her care and to have gotten to know all of you. God Bless and my deepest sympathy to all the family.

    Reply
  61. Sue Chase says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:58 am

    It is with sadness that Larry and I read of Mary\’s passing. She and Harry were such wonderful role models for their family and community. Also she was a faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church with her family through the years.She was always so happy, and it showed in her every day life. She will be missed by all of you, but oh remember all of those family gatherings in their home and cherish them.

    Reply
  62. Paula Babcock says

    March 11, 2013 at 10:29 am

    Dear Angi and Tim,
    We are so sorry about your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
    Paula and Ron Babcock

    Reply
  63. Francie & Dennis Beville says

    March 11, 2013 at 11:18 am

    Family Girten…please accept our sympathy in the loss of your loved one. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Reply
  64. Kathy Alexander says

    March 11, 2013 at 3:30 pm

    Dearest Girten Family, My sincere condolences to you all. Mr. and Mrs. Girten raised so many wonderful members of this community and that continues to grow with her Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. You all have been blessed with her love. May all those memories bring you comfort.
    Sincerely, Kathy & Family

    Reply
  65. Anonymous says

    March 11, 2013 at 7:25 pm

    Our condolences to all the Girten family on the loss of your mother. She was special and we liked her so much.

    Mary Jane(Parsons)Weidler &
    Ray Pynaert

    Reply
  66. Mary Spoor says

    March 11, 2013 at 8:09 pm

    Dear Angi and Tim,
    You are in my prayers during this difficult time.
    Thinking about all of you.
    Mary

    Reply
  67. Kim Wright Morrison says

    March 11, 2013 at 8:55 pm

    I\’ve known Mary for as long as I can remember, and she was definitely one of the sweetest \”lunch ladies\” that I have ever known! Mary was always smiling and full of compliments. The \”Girten\” family is a very special group of people because of Mary!

    Reply
  68. Dale & Dorothy Heflick says

    March 11, 2013 at 9:23 pm

    May God bless the whole Girten family in this time of sorrow.

    Reply
  69. Barb Lowry says

    March 11, 2013 at 10:45 pm

    Our deepest sympathy to the Girten/Nelson families. You now have another angel in heaven looking down on you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. God be with you and give you peace.

    Barb & Bub Lowry

    Reply
  70. Janet Smith says

    March 11, 2013 at 11:38 pm

    Girten Family,
    My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Your mother was a loving, caring lady and will be missed. A mother with open arms to all the neighborhood kids.
    Janet Metsker Smith

    Reply
  71. Bob Albertson says

    March 12, 2013 at 2:20 am

    To the whole Girten family I very sorry to hear about Mary\’s passing she was one special lady
    And I\’m sure anyone that knew her would say the same and although I didn\’t see her much since I left Plymouth whenever I did she would welcome me with a big hug, she always treated me as part of the family & all I can think of are good memories that will be with me for the rest of my life
    She will be missed
    Take care, Bob Albertson

    Reply
  72. Kathy Tracy says

    March 12, 2013 at 7:05 am

    Dear Ann and family,

    We are so very sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. Ann, I remember her well and she was such a sweet caring lady.
    Please know you are all in our prayers and thoughts at this time.

    Sincerely,
    Kathy and Avonell Tracy

    Reply
  73. Janet (Murray) Johnson says

    March 12, 2013 at 7:50 am

    Lynn,
    I am so sorry to hear about your Mother. I remember her from years ago. She was a very sweet lady.

    J

    Reply
  74. Holli Shorter Pifer says

    March 12, 2013 at 7:55 am

    To The Girten Family,

    I have known all of you for many years and I know how much your mother meant to all of you. She will be greatly missed by this community. How wonderful she lived so long and touched so many lives. You will have many memories for years to pass down to your children and grandchildren.

    God bless all of you.

    Holli Shorter-Pifer

    Reply
  75. Bomber Wickey says

    March 12, 2013 at 9:28 am

    To All the Girten Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mary lived a long and fruitful life. Always had a kind word to say to everyone. Now she is in God\’s hands and her final resting place beside Harry. Prayers are coming your way during this difficult time.

    Reply
  76. Mary Lee Rudd says

    March 12, 2013 at 9:52 am

    To all the Girten family, I\’m so sorry for your loss. Although it was somewhat expected, it is none the less sad news. She was known and loved by many. We have all lost a great lady with Mary\’s passing.

    Sincerely,
    Mary Lee Rudd and family

    Reply
  77. Ray Uhlig Jr says

    March 12, 2013 at 10:37 am

    Larry, Patti, and the whole Girten family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time. Ray Uhlig Jr.

    Reply
  78. Lucille Kniggendorf Leachman says

    March 12, 2013 at 11:28 am

    My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mary . She was a dear lady and I was happy to have known her for many years .
    Lucy Kniggendorf Leachman

    Reply
  79. Roger & Cindi Eads says

    March 12, 2013 at 1:21 pm

    Thoughts are with your families. What a special lady she was!

    Reply
  80. Chuck & Marilee Johnson says

    March 12, 2013 at 6:32 pm

    Dear Girten Family, Chuck and I are in Florida. We are so sorry we can not be there to Celebrate Mary\’s Life! What a Wonderful Woman! We feel Blessed to have known Mary and will cherish all the memories. I believe we know each and every one of Mary\’s kids. Chuck probably had most of them in school, or sports events! Plus, knowing her sisters and brothers! Our sincere Sympathy to each and Everyone of YOU!
    Love,
    Chuck and Marilee Johnson

    Reply
  81. Linda & Dave Zeider says

    March 12, 2013 at 8:54 pm

    To a Special family of a Special Lady:

    Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Mary was a sweet and kind lady who will be missed by all. I will always remember her smile and kind words when I greeted her. Now she has joined Harry and they are looking down and smiling on all of us.

    Linda & Dave Zeider

    Reply
  82. Denny Dittrick says

    March 13, 2013 at 3:19 am

    Patti-

    I was so sorry to hear about your mom. She was a wonderful lady and a real sweetheart. She sure will be missed..
    .
    God Bless you and all your family,
    Denny Dittrick

    Reply
  83. Nanette Miller Durbin says

    March 13, 2013 at 7:16 am

    My Prayers and thoughts go out to you all . Your Mother is at peace and with the los of her life God Bless

    Reply
  84. Lucille kniggendorf leachman says

    March 13, 2013 at 7:36 am

    My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mary . She was a dear lady and I was happy to have known her for many years .
    Lucy kniggendorf LEACHMAN

    Reply
  85. Bonnie Beals Essex says

    March 13, 2013 at 8:50 am

    To Larry, Dee, Lynn, and Ann…..

    ……as well as the younger siblings I do not know, I was very sorry to learn of the loss of your dear mother. It is quite obvious, upon reading her obituary, that she will certainly be missed in the Plymouth community. What a BLESSING all of you had to have had such a wonderful mother and role model……and it sounds like your father was very special, too. I didn\’t know your folks well, but I do know that I have very special memories that I treasure of growing up with several of you Girten children. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time of loss.

    Bonnie

    Reply
  86. Becky Wade says

    March 13, 2013 at 9:31 am

    To All of The Girten Family

    We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Mary was a wonderful woman and so many of us are blessed to have known her. Your whole family was blessed to have parents like Harry and Mary. Cherish the
    memories which we know there are many. Our prayers are with you ALL during this difficult time.

    Love to you all,
    Al and Becky Wade

    Reply
  87. Jerry Ringle says

    March 13, 2013 at 10:06 am

    I played in that back yard and grew up with the Girten kids. Mr. and Mrs. Girten welcomed all who came and made everyone feel as though they had true worth. We should all learn by their example. We could use more Harry and Mary Girtens. Our prayers are with you.

    Jerry and Christine Ringle

    Reply
  88. Kathy Jung Parker says

    March 13, 2013 at 10:23 am

    To the whole Girten family,
    Our thoughts & prayers are with you all at this very difficult time. I did not know your Mom, but have known a lot of you \”kids\”. She must have been a wonderful person.
    Don & Kathy (Jung) Parker

    Reply
  89. Kay Murray Bauer says

    March 13, 2013 at 11:30 am

    Every morning stopped at Girten home to walk to school with Ann. A big, noisy happy family and Mary was certainly the heart of it all. Fond memories.

    Reply
  90. Julie Weidner says

    March 13, 2013 at 12:54 pm

    Dear Girten Family, Although it is always difficult to lose a beloved parent, we hope that each of you finds peace and comfort in the wonderful memories of Mary and the legacy of family closeness that will live on for generations to come.

    The Schroeder Family, Dave, Carol, Julie & Jan

    Reply
  91. Susan (Martin) Allen says

    March 13, 2013 at 1:28 pm

    Our thoughts and prayers for your Family. Your mom was a very special lady who will be greatly missed.

    Bill , Sue (Martin) Allen
    and Family

    Reply
  92. Rita and Jack Simpson says

    March 13, 2013 at 2:57 pm

    Jack and I were planning to come to Mary\’s viewing today, but we have been sick and thought
    better of it. I am much better, but Jack has really been sick for 2 days. He wanted me to send his
    love and special thoughts of Mary and what a great mother she was to all of them. He often speaks
    of how her door was always open to everyone and she always had enough food to feed anyone who
    came by. As we get older, we don\’t forget the kindness of others and truely Mary knew how to
    share the love. I know you will miss her greatly. You only have one mother in this life and that
    special bond does not end in death. We will be thinking of all of you at this time.

    Reply
  93. Richard and Marsha Warren Botset says

    March 13, 2013 at 3:16 pm

    We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. We are never ready to lose our loved ones, but it should be a comfort to know that she loved her family so very much. Please accept our sincere condolences.

    Reply
  94. Rick Derf says

    March 13, 2013 at 5:36 pm

    Mary was one of the sweetest people I ever met and she raised an outstanding family. She and Harry were Plymouth fixtures. I have many fond memories of their loving children My thoughts and prayers are with the family. She will be missed, but she will be waiting to greet us one day when we pass through the gates of Heaven. Mary lived a life centered on the Golden Rule; she was dedicated to others and did for them what she would have hoped someone would do for her if she were in their circumstance.

    Love,

    Rick and Marty Derf (Mr. & Mrs. Big Time Radio)

    Reply
  95. Donna Taber Whitmer says

    March 13, 2013 at 6:53 pm

    To The Girten Family,

    My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. May she soar with the angels…..

    Reply
  96. Cathy Glaub says

    March 13, 2013 at 7:05 pm

    Sorry to hear about your loss. Your mom was a wonderful person she always had a smile on her face when you would see her. I have a lot of great memories growing up on the south side.

    Reply
  97. Julie and Rick Gilley says

    March 13, 2013 at 11:01 pm

    Thoughts and prayers are with the Girten Family. So lucky to have known such special people!!! Mary and Harry are dancing in Heaven now!!

    Reply
  98. Steve Listenberger says

    March 14, 2013 at 3:01 am

    I was sorry to hear of Your loss. Mary was a good neighbor. I liked the white dog also. I will remember them both with a warm smile.

    Reply
  99. Bob & Ann Kershenr says

    March 14, 2013 at 9:42 am

    Our thought and prayers are with your family.

    Reply
  100. Jennifer & Chuck Houin says

    March 14, 2013 at 10:13 am

    Praying for the enitre Girten family to find peace in their hearts!
    Love always,
    Chuck, Jennifer, Luke and Grant Houin

    Reply
  101. Neys McFarland says

    March 14, 2013 at 3:42 pm

    Your mother was just the sweetest lady. May she rest in peace. Our thoughts are with her family.

    Reply
  102. Cliff Zeider says

    March 14, 2013 at 5:39 pm

    My Sympathy to the Girten family, I knew Mary while reading meters for NIPSCO and then when I moved into her neighbor hood. She was a lovely lady and always was nice to me. She will be missed by all who was lucky enough to have known her. Cliff Z Port St. Joe Fl.

    Reply
  103. Gregory A Amones says

    March 14, 2013 at 11:07 pm

    To Patti and the rest of the Girten family. Thinking of you and your family. Your mother was a fond memory of my school years and will continue to be as long as I think about my younger years.

    Reply
  104. Kay , John and Stephanie Metsker says

    March 16, 2013 at 9:36 am

    Dear Girten family our neighborhood lost a great lady. You could always expect a smile and a wave from Mary and Harry. I am so sorry for your loss, but you will always remember all the things that made her life so great and memorable.

    Reply
  105. Lucille Kniggendorf Leachman says

    March 16, 2013 at 11:28 am

    My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mary . She was a dear lady and I was happy to have known her for many years .
    Lucy Kniggendorf LEACHMAN

    Reply
  106. phil milner says

    March 17, 2013 at 7:07 pm

    Sympathy to all the Girtens, especially Larry and Dee, who Marilyn and I knew. I was part of the south side crew. I\’m glad both your parents had a long and full life, and you must have great memories. I\’ve not enjoyed going through condolences as much as these> I knew your mum best when I was your South Bend Tribune paperboy, in 1953 and – 4, as I figure it now. I would go to yoru kitchen door, collect my 35 cents, hang around for a siting of Dee, whom I loved then, and talk to Mrs. Girten,who knew I was very happy hanging out. She was a busy woman, but she\’d let me hang for a while. She\’d talk, and I\’d watch her deal with small crises, and then she\’d tell me I\’d better leave and finish my collecting. Mr. Girten, by the way, had a sidelight of fixing television sets in those earliest days of television, and he fixed ours until we left Dickson Street for Liberty Street. Love to all things Girten. Marilyn & Phil Milner

    Reply
  107. Becki Hampton Felten says

    March 20, 2013 at 2:58 pm

    I couldn\’t agree more with Phil Milner\’s observations. In reading the condolence messages, it is obvious what an impact Mary Ruth and Harry had on their family, their church and their community. I have fond memories of spending time in the Girten home. Growing up in the same church and knowing the \’older\’ Girten children, I was fortunate to be a part of their friendship and wisdom. I\’m sure you are all feeling the loss but it\’s hard to be sad when one has left such a wonderful legacy. She is at peace and reunited with Harry. What a reunion that must have been! To the Girten/Nelson families: May you all feel God\’s presence as you go on without Mary Ruth..

    Reply
  108. Tami Brock says

    March 25, 2013 at 4:05 pm

    Girten family,
    Our deepest sympathies to you on the loss of your momma. Her legacy will live on through you all! Peace and blessings in the days and months ahead as you remember her life and celebrate all that she stood for.
    Love, Art and Tami Brock

    Reply

Leave Your Condolence Cancel reply

Please share your message of condolence with the family, It will be visible to the public but your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Search Obituary

Obituary Guidelines

First, locate the condolence form to the left and below any other condolences. Then you will need to fill out some basic information prior to typing your message. (We will not share your e-mail address with anyone). Once you are finished typing your message, simply click the submit condolence button. It may take up to 24 hours for your message to appear. We also provide a Tell-A-Friend feature located at the top of this column. This form allows you to send the obituary to a friend. This is particularly helpful to someone who may live out of town.

Share This Obituary

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Footer

funeral homes Plymouth IN

No Hidden Costs Guarantee

Funeral and Cremation costs can be very confusing. Oftentimes other funeral & cremation providers quote a low price, but they do not give you the complete costs.

Read More

Local Weather

Failure notice from provider:
Connection Error:http_request_failed

Follow Us On

Facebook

Free Emergency Life Saving App

Worry Free Transaction

Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home
1100 N Michigan St Plymouth, IN 46563
(574) 936-2829

funeral homes South Bend IN

Satisfaction Guarantee

Our staff is courteous and understanding. Our services are handled with dignity and respect. If you are not completely satisfied with any of our services

Read More

We Are Members Of

Leave Us a Review

Click Here

© 2020 Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home
About Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home | Blog | Site Map  |  Privacy Policy  |  Terms of Use  |  Website by FRM Websites