Mary K. Ambrose

Mary Katherine Ambrose passed away Friday, October 21, 2022 at age 50.

Mary was born on January 29, 1972, in Omaha, NE to Tom and Marie Jensen of Carter Lake, IA. She was the fourth child of five, preceded in death by her sister Diane. In addition to her parents, survivors include her sister, Laura Fender (Andy Tingwald); brother, Tom (Gerianne) Jensen; brother, Brian Jensen; son, Timothee (Becca) Ambrose; son, Zack Ambrose; nephews, Joe Fender and J.P. Jensen; nieces, Teresa Fender and Clare Jensen; and love-of-her-life granddaughter, Whitney “Bit” Ambrose.

Mary graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Council Bluffs, IA. She attended the University of Iowa for a brief time. She furthered her education after devoting her time to raising her sons by earning her CNA and Med-Aid Licenses. During this time Mary was also diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer. She beat the cancer and remained cancer-free for approximately nine years. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in hospice-focused gerontology from Purdue University Global, as her passion for this field grew through working with residents in assisted living facilities.

In 2020, Mary became a grandma for the first time to her granddaughter, Whitney (Bit) who lovingly named her, “Mimi Honeybee.” They quickly became the very best of friends. Mary lived treasuring every moment of quality time with Bit.

Cancer returned to Mary in April 2022. Mary enjoyed her last days with Tim, Becca and Bit fulfilling her bucket-list trip, provided by the NCS Hope Foundation, to an elephant sanctuary in Indiana. She dreamed of sharing this amazing hands-on experience with her granddaughter. After a surprise “safari drive” provided especially for her by the park staff, she fed emus and lamas, and partook in a once-in-a-lifetime photo-op with the 800-pound grizzlies, Bob and Screech. Her heart was full. Mary passed away the following day. Mary was blessed with precious memories as she received these final wishes; she equally blessed her loved ones, saying she was at peace and ready to go Home whenever the Lord decided.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home on Thursday, November 03, 2022.

Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 PM at Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home on Friday, November 4, 2022. The family will direct memorials.