Mary Flesner Oberg

Mary Oberg, our dear mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, died January 10, 2018, at her home in Palm Desert, CA. She was 78. She is mourned by her daughters, Lisa Bennett (George), Minneapolis, MN, and Stephanie Oberg, Sunnyvale, CA; sister Doris Polson (David), Roseville, MN; grandchildren Mitchell Bennett (Frankie), Annika Nabors and Charlotte Nabors; one great-grandchild, Kora Bennett, and another on the way; best friend of 40-plus years Margaret Shea; and numerous other relatives and dear friends.

Mary was born in Rockwell City, IA, the daughter of Wayne and Garnie Flesner. She grew up in Brainerd, MN, and lived in Minneapolis, San Diego, Algodones, NM, Alpine, CA, and Palm Desert. She attended the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. She worked for the University of California, San Diego, Medical Center, as an administrator and invaluable member of the pathology department for 29 years.

Mary took tremendous joy in her circle of family and friends. Her beloved companion animals over the years included Terry, Monroe, Tristan, Teddy, and Holly. She loved reading, dining out, shopping, casino runs, and cute outfits. Making her home a beautiful space was one of her great pleasures. After her retirement, her newfound passion in life was quilting, and she made dozens of quilts for family and friends. Her one-of-a-kind creations also went toward raising money for churches and charities. She cared deeply about social justice and women's rights.

All who knew her are stricken by the loss of her generous heart, her warm and welcoming hospitality, and her gift for making friends. We will remember our love for her and treasure the love she had for us.

Her service will be held Saturday, April 14, 2018 at 10:30 AM at Santee United Methodist Church, 8964 North Magnolia, Santee, California. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the United Methodist Church of Palm Springs, the Ronald McDonald House, Trinity United Methodist Church in San Diego, Naomi’s Closet or the social justice/women’s rights organization of your choice.

Arrangements entrusted to TRIDENT SOCIETY - Rancho Mirage, Rancho Mirage, CA.