Mary Koens, age 74 of Belle Fourche, died Monday, January 12, 2026 at the Monument Health Rapid City Hospital, following a very short fight against cancer, and just 3 months following her husband’s death.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 10:30am Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Leverington Funeral Home of the Northern Hills in Belle Fourche. Visitation will be held 5 to 7pm Friday at the funeral home. Friends may leave written condolences online, and view a video tribute at: www.LeveringtonFH.com

Mary Ann Hendren was born September 25, 1951 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She was the daughter of Lloyd and Irene (Widman) Hendren. In 1969 she graduated from the Washington High School in Sioux Falls. There she met her high school sweetheart, Ben Koens Jr., whom she would marry in 1970. Ben’s career in Law Enforcement took them to many cities throughout South Dakota. In 2006 they moved to Western South Dakota. In Ben and Mary’s younger years, Mary was a stay-at-home mom and together they were foster parents to many children, and worked with those with disabilities. For many years, Mary was the Director at the Artimis House in Spearfish. Throughout her years working there, Mary worked for people with victims of violence. She had a big heart and impacted the lives of many. Mary volunteered many hours helping at the Good Shepherd Clinic in Spearfish and Meals on Wheels.

Mary was a loving mother and grandmother. She was kind, selfless, gracious, and forgiving, and always concerned about helping people understand the gospel of Jesus Christ. She ministered to many and she also discipled many people. She was special to so many, especially her family. Mary will be missed so much.

Mary is survived by her children, Jennifer (Doug) Parrow of Newell, Brian (Kristal) Koens of Groton SD, Julie (Cody) Swanson of Sioux Falls; Brent (Liz) Koens of Faulkton SD; 15 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren (and one on the way); nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; 3 grandchildren; and siblings, Robert, Patricia Hendren, James, John, Gerald, and Cynthia Wingert.