Mary Ann Gall

Mary Ann Gall, 89, of Menno, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026 at Menno-Olivet Care Center.

Mary Ann was born on December 25, 1936, in South Dakota to Michael and Albina Kocer. She attended country school through the fourth grade and continued her education through the eighth grade at Tabor Catholic School. Mary Ann was remarkably intelligent, hardworking, and driven, building a life defined by determination, entrepreneurship, and service to others.

Mary Ann spent her life working hard and caring for others. Over the years, she worked at Gurney’s Café, owned and operated a grocery store in Lesterville, tended bar at the Golden Nugget in Lesterville. Also alongside her husband, Reuben, she helped run the Avon Sale Barn they owned, and farmed together for many years. Later in life, she also worked at Wendy’s, Menno-Olivet Care Center, and provided home health care for many years. Much of what she knew was self taught, and she had a natural gift for business, organization, and hospitality.

Mary Ann was known for her work ethic and generous heart. She loved feeding people and making sure no one left her home hungry. Some fondly knew her for her famous potato salad, sometimes making over 100 pounds at a time for gatherings and events. For more than 50 years, she welcomed pheasant hunters from across the country into her home, preparing meals, opening her doors, and creating traditions many looked forward to year after year. And finally retiring at the age of 80 years old.

More than anything, Mary Ann loved her family and found joy in caring for others.

She is survived by her children, Deb (Bill) Block of Menno, Greg (Rita) Gall of Lesterville, Cindy (Brad) Carley of Sioux Falls, and Gene (Penny) Gall of Apple Valley, Minnesota; 14 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren, with one more expected in August; her sister, Joyce Sunderland; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Reuben Gall; her parents, Michael and Albina Kocer; grandchildren Brooke and Dana Gall; and Joe Block; and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Mary Ann will be remembered for her strength, independence, entrepreneurial spirit, generous hospitality, and the love she showed others through hard work, good food, and unwavering devotion to family.

• In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to:
• Lesterville Community Hall Building Project
• c/o Daryl Bierle
• P.O. Box 45
• Lesterville, SD 57040