Mary Louise McLaughlin was born June 22, 1925, in Clontarf, Minnesota, the daughter of Wallace Hunt and Meta (Ouren) Frederick. She was baptized on August 18, 1940 by Rev. Maynard Lune at First Baptist Church in Benson. Mary grew up on a farm near Clontarf, and attended grade school at Clontarf. She graduated from Benson High School. On May 3, 1943, Mary was united in marriage to Max LeRoy McLaughlin by Rev. Edwin Hesse at the Methodist Church in Webster, South Dakota. This union was blessed with two children. Max passed away in 2004. Mary and Max were able to share in 60 years of marriage. After their marriage, Mary lived in Los Angeles, CA, while Max was a pilot in the Army Air Corps during World War II. Mary worked in an aircraft factory there. When Max was transferred, Mary and the baby moved back to Benson. In 1945, Max was discharged and they moved to Murdock for about a year, then moved back to Benson, where their second child was born. In late 1950, they purchased their farm just north of Benson, and lived there until 1999, when they sold their farm and moved into Benson. Mary spent her time as a homemaker and raised the children. She was active in her church as a Sunday School teacher, choir member, and the Pilgrim Point church camp, Benson Church Women, and Church World Service. She wrote and presented many musical and dramatic programs in the area, both religious and secular. She was a member of the Girl Scouts of America since 1952, including the Peacepipe Council, Board of Directors, Girl Scout Leader, Outdoor Trainer, and Music Consultant. With executive Director, Mary Russell, Mary organized and started the Day Camp in Swift County. She also served as a Den Mother for Boy Scouts, was a member of the Choraliers, Barbershop Quartet and acted in the Dreamland Theatre II. Mary enjoyed life traveling, lake living, outdoor activities, singing, cooking, camping, caring for animals, and watching baseball. She especially enjoyed her beloved family, her church, and her friends of all ages. Mary was called from this life on April 7, 2009 at the Swift County Benson Hospital. She attained the age of 83 years, 9 months and 15 days. Mary is survived by her children: Linda (Patrick) Moriarty of Lakeville, and Michael (Patricia) McLaughlin; two grandchildren: Mary Moriarty and Jennifer McLaughlin; and other relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her husband Max; her parents, Wallace and Meta; a brother, Willis Frederick and two sisters: Edna Coffey and Gladys Goggin.