Throughout her life, Mary Jean (Coburn) Ehalt, 78, of Apple Valley, was known for her relentlessly selfless nature. She dedicated her life to helping those around her, always placing the needs of others before her own — even until she passed away on August 1, 2026.

Born on March 30, 1948, in Fairmont, Minnesota, to James and Darlene Coburn, Mary spent her childhood in Welcome, Minnesota. She later met the love of her life, Rich Ehalt. After she graduated from high school, they married in1967 and shared 59 more wonderful years together. Their journey took them from Texas to Germany and back to Minnesota, where they raised their three daughters. Her family was Mary's greatest pride and accomplishment.

Mary dedicated most of her career to her work family at Richfield Bank and Trust. After moving to Apple Valley in 1972, she became deeply involved in her community as a Lioness Club member, women's softball team pitcher, Brownie troop leader, activity fundraiser, hospital advisory committee member, and volunteer for countless committees at the Church of the Risen Savior. She also led and co-founded the South Metro chapter of the Growing Through Loss support group.

While young, she began battling rheumatoid arthritis, naming her lifelong companion "Arthur." Her battle with arthritis later inspired her to teach arthritis water aerobics to help others manage pain and improve their quality of life.

Mary spent much of her free time cheering for her daughters on the softball fields (known as the "team mom") and in their various creative, educational, and career endeavors. When her grandchildren came along, she became their biggest cheerleader.

Despite her petite 4'9" frame Mary maintained her feisty and tenacious "spitfire" edge while simultaneously having a huge heart. She led with kindness, cared deeply, gave generously, and lifted up everyone around her.

We are confident that when she passed away, she was waving all the way to heaven, telling God to flash the porch lights — with her caring Minnesota goodbye — saying she loves us and to call when we get home.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, James and Darlene Coburn, and siblings: Rodney Coburn, Shirley George, and James Coburn. She is survived by her loving husband, Richard; daughters: Lynn Ehalt (Paul Prew), Melissa (Lars) Olsen, and Jenelle (Ryan) Masterson; grandchildren: Alexis, Connor, Kai, Laken and Kaila; siblings: Frank Coburn, Janet Miller, and LeAnn (Scott) Olson, as well as nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11am on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at the Church of the Risen Savior, 1501 Co Rd 42 Burnsville, MN, with a gathering of family and friends starting at 10am. Internment to be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at 9:45am on Thursday, September 10, 2026. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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White Funeral Home 952-432-2001

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