Mary Jane Kinyon

Mary Jane Kinyon was born on June 21, 1953 in Port Clinton, Ohio. She was the youngest of five children to Frank and Harriet Carstens. Mary Jane went to Washington State University from 1971-1977 where she earned bachelor’s degrees in Bacteriology, Public Health and Animal Science. She met Richard “Dick” at WSU and they were married in August 1977. She then moved to Conrad where Dick had purchased a burgeoning veterinary practice. Mary Jane played a key part in Dick’s practice by providing operational support and a smiling face to all that walked through the door.

After the additions of Joanne, Tom, and Bob to the Kinyon family, Mary Jane became a certified childbirth educator and taught Lamaze classes to local families. She was a girl and boy scout leader as well as a longtime leader of the Sandrockets 4-H club.

Mary Jane was a beloved member of the Pondera Valley Lutheran Church where she served on the board in a variety of roles. Mary Jane was a long-time member and treasurer of the Pondera Players where she was the costume designer and seamstress for countless productions.

Mary Jane believed that her role as a mother was to nurture confident individuals who also contributed to society. She advocated learning and made sure her children knew the value of education. Mary Jane encouraged her children to be independent but was always there to provide support and love in whatever path they were interested in pursuing.

Mary Jane enjoyed sitting out on her deck in the summer, drinking a glass of homemade wine and reading a good book. She loved animals and spring flowers and was always a willing participant in walks, hikes and adventures.

Mary Jane was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Tom and Chuck; and her sister Sue.

She is survived by her husband, Dick; three children, her brother, their spouses; five grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be Tuesday, February 15, at 11am at Pondera Valley Lutheran Church. A reception at the church will follow service.

If unable to attend service, below is a link to watch the live service.