Mary Gene Fredericksen

Mary Gene Fredericksen, passed away feeling a sense of great love on Saturday, June 20, 2026. Born on September 29, 1940, in Ludington, Michigan, the daughter of Howard and Georgine McDonald Swanson, she carried with her throughout her life the steady spirit of someone who understood how to live with grace, purpose, and heart. Mary married David Edward Fredericksen on December 30, 1970. He passed on July 14, 2022.

She was a strong lady in every sense of the phrase. Mary faced life with resilience and dignity, and she carried herself with the confidence of someone who knew the importance of perseverance. She believed in the strength of women and was very much a supporter of women, encouraging others to stand tall, speak boldly, and trust in their own abilities. Her life served as a powerful example of what it means to lead with compassion while never losing sight of inner strength. Mary accredited her good life to embracing the philosophy of the 12-step recovery program, for which she was grateful. She inspired others not by demanding admiration, but by living in a way that made admiration inevitable.

Mary found joy in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. She loved to travel, and through her journeys she embraced the beauty of new places. She also loved to play Mahjong, a pastime that reflected her enjoyment of connection, strategy, and shared moments of fun.

Her love extended deeply to her pets, who were cherished companions in her life. She adored Chico the dog, and his predecessor, Brutus, and the affection she gave them was a reflection of the tenderness that defined her character. Those who knew Mary understood that her love for animals was part of her larger capacity to care deeply and sincerely. She welcomed companionship with an open heart, and in return, she gave loyalty, comfort, and devotion.

Mary adored her church and had a desire to see it grow and thrive. She had a special appreciation for the eclectic group of people that she worshipped with. She looked forward to the Bible studies, and the potluck dinners. Mary grew in the Lord and her spiritual self-grew as well.

As we remember Mary, we celebrate a woman who lived with purpose and who touched lives in ways both large and small. Her journey was one of love, strength, and unwavering support for other people. She leaves behind the example of a life well lived, a life that reminds us to be loving, to be kind, to be strong, and to keep moving forward with hope. Mary Gene Fredericksen will be remembered with deep affection and lasting gratitude, and her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Mary is survived by her children, Christine Griggs, Mark Donohue, Michael Donohue, David (Jeanna) Fredericksen Jr., and Eric (Celcelia) Fredericksen; a sister, Ruth Ann (Gary) Shlimovitz; 6 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

In keeping with Mary’s wishes, there will be a brief committal service officiated by Rev. Dr. Scott Seay, located at the Indiana Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, located in Madison, Indiana. She will be inurned next to her late husband.

Mary’s church will be having a potluck dinner in her honor in the days ahead. Please see the website for a day to be set for this event.

Memorial donations may be made to the Brown County Presbyterian Fellowship though the funeral home or directly to the church located at 602 N State Rd 135 Nashville, IN 47448.