Mary "Donnis" Diehl, age 98, of Mahnomen, MN, died Thursday, March 23, 2017, at Mahnomen Health Center Nursing Home, Mahnomen, MN.

Mary "Donnis" Diehl, the daughter of George and Cleo (Berryman) Conover, was born on January 24, 1919 while her mother was visiting family in Jackson, MI.  As a newborn, she traveled with her family back to their home in Wolford, ND where she grew up.   Following her high school graduation, Donnis worked doing housekeeping jobs for area neighbors and pumped gas in her father's shop.  While at a local dance, Donnis met William "Bill" Diehl and the couple were united in marriage on June 5, 1940.  Shortly thereafter, they purchased a farm near Bejou, MN and were blessed with two children.  Donnis worked side by side with Bill on the farm for many years.   She was a true farmwife who never hesitated to drive tractor, help with the harvest, and tend the animals, all the while raising the children.  She always had a large garden and canned her fresh produce each year. Donnis also spent many hours caring for her yard and beautiful flowers. After Bill's death in 1974, Donnis was able to continue living on the farm with her son for many years.  In 1993, she moved into Mahnomen and made her home at Valley View Commons.  She enjoyed visiting with her neighbors and friends there, as well as playing cards and puzzles.  Donnis was proud to help decorate the commons for each upcoming season and welcomed visitors who would come to entertain.  She especially loved music,  greatly enjoyed when area children would come to sing, and family gatherings.  Donnis also liked to cook meals for family and friends. She crocheted many beautiful doilies and afghans over the years.   Her vibrant smile and caring heart will be remembered always.

Mary "Donnis" is survived by one daughter, Phyllis Visser (James) of Gary, MN; two granddaughters Renae Franke, Diane Bartholomew (Sam) and one grandson, David Visser (Sara); 11 great grandchildren: Ryan and  Alex Franke, Trissten and Elissa Bartholomew, Liam, Daniel, Melanie, Max, Elenora, Henry and  Peter Visser.  She was preceded in death by her husband Bill; parents George and Cleo; son Dennis; brothers: Leon and George and sisters: Dora, Lottie and Lola.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00pm on Thursday April 6, 2017 at the Anderson Family Funeral Home in Mahnomen. Visitation will be from 5:00pm until 7:00pm on Wednesday, April 5, with a Prayer Service beginning at 6:00pm, all at the Anderson Family Funeral Home in Mahnomen.  Burial will be in Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery, Mahnomen.