Mavis E. Gonshorowski

Mavis Ellen (Vacura) Gonshorowski, age 81, passed away peacefully early Saturday morning, February 21, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Born August 30, 1944, to Edward and Lillian Vacura Jr., she graduated from Greenbush High School in 1962 as valedictorian of her class. Mavis later met Gerald Gonshorowski, and they were united in marriage on January 29, 1966.

Throughout her life, Mavis embraced many roles. She worked for the superintendent of Roseau County Schools, in the admitting office at the Greenbush Hospital, and made double-hung windows at Marvin. Above all, she was the heart of the farm — the best parts runner, truck driver, chef, and devoted farm wife our dad could have asked for. After Dad’s passing, Mom moved to town and soon began working at the Greenbush Tribune as a feature writer, a job she truly loved. Her gift for conversation allowed her to connect easily with others, and her warmth and compassion shone through every article she wrote.

Mom lived with humility, kindness, and gratitude. Generous with her time, love, and support, she was thankful for each day and for all that God blessed her with. She was the best mom, grandma, and great-grandma we could have ever asked for — gentle in spirit, never speaking a harsh word, and always finding good in every situation.

She was talented in all she did, from her beautiful drawings to teaching calligraphy, and her handwriting was pure perfection. Music brought her joy, she loved singing hymns and old country songs with us until the very end. Mom set the bar high; her example continues to inspire us to do better and be better every day.

Blessed by Mavis and Gerald’s union are Rebecca (Lowell), Rachel (Vernon), and Ryan; grandchildren Cody (Megan), Taylor (Eli), Braxton (Kelsi), and Braelyn; and great-grandchildren Case, Isabel, Josephine, and Leslie.

Mavis is survived by her brothers Arlen, Ervin, and Gary (Debra); brother-in-law Mark; sisters-in-law Roxann, Dorothy, and Julie; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Welcoming her home were her husband Gerald; her parents; in-laws John and Florence; and her grandson Levi. She was also preceded in death by her stepfather, Melvin; brothers-in-law Gervase, Gale, Nathan, and Laddie; nephews Daryl and Corey; and niece Jennifer.

We can only imagine the joyful celebration as she was welcomed home by those who went before her.

We would like to recognize and thank Ryan Bergeron for the kindness and friendship he brought to mom’s life. We should all be so lucky to have a friend like you. 

And to our amazing aunt Deb, thank you for being Mom’s voice, advocate and truly, her guardian angel here on earth. We are all so blessed to have you in our lives. 

Per Mom’s request, a private graveside service will be held at a later date.

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