Obituary: Mary L. Kantonen

Mary Louise Kantonen, 75, of Cloquet passed away peacefully at her home on Jan. 10, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. She was born July 15, 1949, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Brice and Beatrice Parnin. As a teenager, Mary moved with her family from Fort Wayne to Cloquet, where she graduated from Cloquet High School in 1967.

Mary was first married to Michael Langenbrunner, with whom she had three children, Mark, Milissa and Miles. Later, she married Gary Kantonen, and together they blended their families with love, affection, and humor. Along with Gary’s children — Cary, Amber and Jeremy — they affectionately referred to themselves as their own “Brady Bunch,” creating a close-knit and joyful family.

Mary was a hardworking and dedicated woman, known for her entrepreneurial spirit. She owned and operated Cloquet Auto Cleaners with pride for many years, contributing greatly to her community.

Mary had a deep appreciation for nature and spent many peaceful moments fishing with her husband Gary at Timber Wolf Point Resort, gardening, and marveling at the birds and butterflies around her. She also loved attending performances at the County Seat Theater, enjoying the local talent and arts that brought her joy.

But more than anything, Mary loved to be around people. Her warmth, kindness and vibrant energy drew others to her, and she cherished the time spent with family, friends and the community. Whether planning a holiday, a birthday or any life event, she put her heart and soul into creating beautiful memories for those she loved.

Mary’s kindness, generosity, and infectious spirit made her a friend to all. She will be deeply missed, especially by her dog, Finn, who was always by her side.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Brice Parnin and Beatrice Yanda; and her beloved brother Mark Parnin, and sister Amy Roe. She is survived by her husband, Gary; children, Mark (Denise) Langenbrunner, Milissa (Chad) Soukkala, Miles Langenbrunner, Cary (David) Libson, Amber (Dan) Kantonen, and Jeremy Kantonen; her nine grandchildren; her great-granddaughter, Oaklyn; her sister, Judy (Steve, deceased) Sanda; her brother, Bruce (Lynn) Parnin; and many dear nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

The family extends a heartfelt thank-you to the St. Luke’s Hospice team for their amazing care and compassion during this time. A special thank-you to Allie from St. Luke’s Hospice for not only providing exceptional care but for becoming a wonderful friend through this journey. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the charity of your choice.

A Mass of Christian Burial was scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 16 at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Cloquet. Interment will be at the Perch Lake Cemetery. Arrangements are by Nelson Funeral Care.