Mary Kathryn Foster

Mary Foster 77 passed away peacefully in Fort Dodge and entered His Kingdom of Joy March 3, 2026. Mary Kathryn was born November 5, 1948 in Forest City, IA to Karl and Freda Gates. The family moved to Fort Dodge shortly thereafter where Mary spent most of her life. She was baptized and confirmed at an early age at St Paul Lutheran and attended the Fort Dodge Public School System. Even at a young age, Mary preferred being outdoors and appreciated nature’s beauty. She adored all of God’s creatures and especially her beloved cat, Bunny Boo. For Mary’s entire adult life she was a superb fisherwoman, catching anything that would bite. She enjoyed coaching her only sibling, Kris on the nuances of fishing – where to fish, what bait and tackle to use, and most importantly, how to reel in the BIG ones! If there was ever an NBA or WNBA game being televised, you could bet Mary was watching it. She knew all the players and could recite the winning scores. Two favorites of hers were LeBron James and Caitlyn Clark. Over the years, Mary had various jobs from manufacturing to delivering the newspaper. After her back became disabled, she helped people out by giving away groceries and cooking for those less fortunate than herself. She also gave others rides around town that had no transportation. Family was very important to Mary and after her father’s passing she looked after her mother for a number of years. Mary always had the biggest smile for friends and family whenever they would visit her. Mary was preceded in death by her parents Karl and Freda Gates. She is survived by her sister Kristine Ackerman Fort Dodge, her nephew Mike Ackerman Fort Dodge, Sally (Chad) Ingle Colorado, and a great niece Kateryn Bromley Colorado. Mary will be forever loved and missed. Rest in peace dear Mary. Private services are being provided by the family with Mary’s friend, Pastor Dani Rogers officiating.