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In Loving Memory of Mary Elaine Vliem

March 3, 1949 – December 28, 2025

Mary Vliem, a devoted servant of Christ and the heart of her family, went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 28, 2025.

Born on March 3, 1949, Mary lived a life rooted in unwavering Christian faith. She was a woman of deep prayer and grace, known for the quiet strength she drew from her relationship with Jesus. A faithful member of her church, Mary loved to serve, quietly working behind the scenes to care for others and support the ministry of the Gospel. Her life was a living example of a servant's heart, and her legacy of faith will continue to guide her family for years to come.

This year, Mary and her beloved husband, Dick Vliem, celebrated 55 years of marriage. Their half-century of devotion was a beautiful picture of love and partnership. Together, they operated their family business, where Mary was an integral and tireless presence. Her hard work and dedication helped the business become a vital part of the community, where she was a familiar, welcoming face to neighbors and friends for decades.

Beyond her work and ministry, Mary was a gifted and passionate quilter. With a keen eye for color and a heart for detail, she spent countless hours creating intricate works of art. These quilts were expressions of her love, and her family will forever treasure the beautiful pieces she passed down—heirlooms that will continue to provide warmth and comfort, reminding them of her patient spirit.

Mary's greatest joy was her family. She is survived by Dick and their three sons and daughters-in-law:

Jeremy & Cindy Vliem, Jesse & Erin Vliem,   Joshua & Tonya Vliem.  She was the cherished "Gramma" to 12 grandchildren: Jake, Max, Olivia, Madeline, Charlie, Murphy, Evelyn, Billy, Ella, Reagan, Noah, and Isaiah. She is also survived by her sisters, Anita and Vana, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who held a special place in her heart.

Mary was preceded in death by her mother, Mary James, and her father, Keith James.

While her family deeply feels the loss of her presence, they find comfort in the promise of the resurrection and the knowledge that she is now resting in the arms of her Savior.

"Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her." — Proverbs 31:28

Services to celebrate Mary's life and faith will be held on Sunday, January 4th at Holland Center Christian Reformed Church, rural Lodgepole, SD at 1:00PM.  Rev. Brad Burckhalter will officiate and burial will follow at the Holland Center Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 4 all at the Holland Center Christian Reformed Church.

Memorial Donations: In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Mary's memory to the South Dakota Parkinson's Foundation at www.southdakotaparkinson.org.