Mary Otto Woodward
August 16 1957 - July 27 2026
Mary Otto Woodward was born on August 16, 1957, in Marshall, Minnesota, to Alice (Zinniel) and Raymond Otto. She was one of nine children. Mary was baptized at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church and attended Holy Redeemer Catholic School before graduating from Marshall Senior High School.
Mary was a retired civil engineering assistant who lived in Shoreview, Minnesota. She had a young soul, a curious mind, and an adventurous spirit. She loved life and found joy in experiences both big and small.
Mary especially cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren, Lily and Milo. She enjoyed playing cards, traveling, and experiencing new places, including spending time living abroad in Tuscany. She spent many winters in Orange Beach, where she enjoyed biking, searching for shells, and crafting.
Throughout her life, Mary loved being outdoors and making memories with the people she loved. In her younger years, she enjoyed swimming, fishing, boating, ice skating, and gardening with her children, as well as spending summers at the family cabin. She embraced adventure and never lost her sense of wonder or her youthful spirit.
Mary was also a steadfast champion of women’s equality. She believed in creating a better life and greater opportunities for women and instilled those values in her family.
Mary passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026, after a long battle with cancer.
She leaves behind her children, Alice Hansen (Ben) and Nathan Woodward; grandchildren, Lily and Milo Hansen; and siblings Bill Otto (Terri), Ray Otto Jr., and Pat Otto (Tami), along with numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alice and Raymond Otto, and siblings Sue Sieverson, Barb Otto, Greg Otto, Paul Otto, and Kristin Schultz.
Mary will be remembered for her love of life, adventurous spirit, devotion to her family, and the many memories she created with those around her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on September 26, 2026, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Turtle Lake County Park, 4979 Hodgson Road, Shoreview, MN.