Mercedes “Ginny” Iverson, a remarkable woman of 92 years, peacefully passed away on July 15, 2024, at The Alton Memory Care in St. Paul, Minnesota. Her life, rich with experiences and cherished moments, touched many and leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and dedication.
Born Mercedes Virginia Hetland on June 14, 1932, in Gonvick, Minnesota, she was the daughter of Reubin and Ruth (Odneson) Hetland. Ginny’s pursuit of knowledge was evident early in life. She graduated from Gonvick High School in 1950 and furthered her education at the Abbott Hospital School of Nursing, earning her degree in nursing in 1953. Her commitment to academic excellence continued as she obtained a Masters of Science, and was honored with Phi Kappa Phi recognition, from South Dakota State University in 1981. Ginny dedicated her professional life to healthcare as a Registered Nurse, serving with compassion and skill until her retirement in 1993.
In 1958, Ginny embarked on another significant chapter of her life, marrying Ralph B. Iverson on June 17th. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership, lasting until Ralph’s passing in April 2022. Throughout their years together, they built a life across several states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and South Dakota, before finally making Sioux Falls their home in 1988. Ginny was known for her strength of character, her insatiable curiosity, and her diligent work ethic. Education held a paramount place in her values, and she consistently sought opportunities for personal and intellectual growth. Retirement afforded Ginny and Ralph the chance to explore the world. They traveled extensively, immersing themselves in the cultures and landscapes of Europe, Asia, and North America, creating lasting memories together.
Ginny’s energetic spirit extended to her hobbies and interests. She was an avid gardener, with a particular fondness for wildflowers, bringing natural beauty into her surroundings. Her creative hands were always busy with numerous crafts, and she found joy in the simple acts of feeding birds and squirrels, connecting with the natural world around her. Physical activity was also important to Ginny, as she enjoyed walking and berry-picking. Her intellectual curiosity extended to genealogy and computers, embracing both the past and the future. She enthusiastically shared her passions, often encouraging her family, including her sometimes less-than-enthusiastic husband, to join her in genealogical research and historical lectures and events. Ginny’s generosity was boundless, freely giving her time, resources, and talents to those around her. She was a cherished and loyal friend, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. Her absence will be deeply felt by many.
Ginny is lovingly remembered by her two children: Nancy (Mike) McKnight and Marc (Katie) Iverson. Her legacy continues through her seven grandchildren: Jessica (Josh) Butler, Ryan (Brittany) McKnight, Kelly (Nick) Purcell, Megan McKnight, Ingrid Iverson, Annika Iverson, and Thor Iverson. She also leaves behind two great-granddaughters, Brynn and Shay McKnight, and numerous other relatives and friends who were touched by her life.
Ginny was predeceased by her parents, her brother, Wayne Hetland, and her beloved husband, Ralph.
A private family graveside service to honor Ginny’s life will be held in the coming weeks at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota, providing a peaceful final resting place near St. Paul.
Ginny’s family expresses their sincere gratitude to the compassionate staff of The Alton Memory Care and Our Lady of Peace Hospice for their dedicated and loving care during her final days in St. Paul, Minnesota.
