Maureen Fogard

Maureen Patricia Fogard went to be with her Lord in the early hours of September 21st, 2011 at the PioneerCare Center in Fergus Falls, Minnesota. As she slept He gently took her Home. Maureen was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada on August 20, 1944. Her birth mother was Mary Booi (O’Connell). She spent her first ten years in an orphanage and then was adopted by Nino and Geri Cassandro who moved her to California. She had a brother, Bryan, who was also adopted. As an adult she searched for her birth mother and was able to make contact with her in 1981. That same year she flew to Edmonton, Alberta to meet her mom, Mary, her half-brothers Larry, Jim & Tom, and her half-sisters Gwen, Mary-Anne & Bonnie, and their father Brum. From that day, she stayed in contact with them, and became especially close to Gwen. She adored her brother Larry and was in awe of the love she received from “Dad” Booi. She had a special place in her heart for all her nieces and nephews, but especially her namesake, Caitlin Maureen. She met her husband, Warren, when she was teaching writing at Stanford University. Against all odds, she fell in love and gave her heart to a man who taught her that there are some people you can trust. They married in 1972, divorced in 1985 then remarried in 1992. She lovingly cared for Warren until his death in 1996. She spent seven years as a Navy nurse, then worked in terminal pediatrics and finished her working career as a writer for Mensa. She retired in 1985. Maureen taught herself to read at the age of three. She became a voracious reader of everything and anything from history to poetry to fiction to scripture to maps. She loved the New York Times crossword puzzles, because they were the most difficult! For many years she had a passion for needlework and quilting, and spent many happy hours creating clothes for dolls that she donated to the Salvation Army. Maureen understood the pain and suffering that life can bring, and was a compassionate and caring friend to many. Although she had a life that was full of difficulties, she was able to rise above, to forgive and find joy in the small things. She had a grateful heart, especially to her Lord and Savior Who brought miraculous healing to her soul. The care that Maureen received at Pioneer Care Center was exemplary. The staff members were warm, compassionate and always respectful. The new facility where she lived her last days was spacious and beautiful. A memorial service for Maureen will be held in the chapel at Pioneer Care Center on Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. with Sister Joyce Leibly officiating.  Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls, Minnesota is in charge of the arrangements.