Obituary of Mary Louise Runyan

Mary Louise Runyan died in her home on April 24th. She was 71 years old.  Mary was born December 29th,1953 in Des Moines, Iowa to Ivan and Genevieve Runyan.

Mary graduated from Ames High School in 1972. She went on to study art and business at Iowa State University.   

After 40 years of service, She retired from NCS/Pearson in 2022.

Mary was the most unique mix of 'an old soul' and someone who never lost the magic of their 'inner child.' She was a very talented artist of many mediums. Her creativity was both inspiring and endless.  Mary could build a deck onto her house and show up for a dinner invite with her signature rum cake, all on the same day. She loved writing, reading, and traveling. Always opting for the most scenic routes. Mary's magical way with animals was fascinating. Hummingbirds would land in her hand and anyone's pets would instantly fall in love with her. 

Mary was gentle and she was kind. She was also very independent, intelligent, and stubborn (in only the best ways.) And with Mary, you never had to wonder....because if you were lucky enough, you knew that she loved BIG. 

She is going to be greatly missed by; her sister Karen Runyan Petersen of (Reno, NV), her brother Don Runyan (Mary Kristine) of Spruce Creek, PA, her brother Dennis Runyan (Elizabeth Runyan) of Iowa City, and her sister-in-law Robin O'Rourke Petersen (Palm Harbor, FL); her nephews (Michael Petersen (Courtenay), Stephen Petersen (Robin), and niece Kristen Petersen; Her "gang" as she lovingly referred to them Deb Black, Linda Hedberg, Cindy Fogleman, and Cheryl Stolmeier. Friendships that go all the way back to the 2nd grade. 

Mary was preceded in death by her parents Ivan and Genevieve Runyan and brother-in-law David Petersen. 

The family will hold a private service at a later date in Hawaii... where her ashes will be shared with the ocean - honoring her wishes. 

In honor of Mary, the family respectfully requests no flowers and donations may be made to the breast cancer charity of your choosing.

It's so much darker when a light goes out than it would have been if it had never shone.

- John Steinbeck