Hafften

Mary Ann (Twardy) Hafften, age 88 of Delano, passed away on April 20, 2026. She was born on November 17, 1937, in Independence, Minnesota, to Andrew and Wanda (Gardas) Twardy.

Mary Ann grew up on a farm near Lake Rebecca in Hennepin County with her parents, older brothers, Joe (Joseph) and George, and her younger sister, Kate (Katherine). She learned to play the accordion, insisting on playing the same model as her brother, Joe. A favorite memory she often shared was being a guest on a local radio program to play polka music together with her brother.

Mary Ann attended St. Peter Catholic School in Delano until eighth grade and then attended Delano High School, graduating in 1955.

While baling and stacking hay for a neighbor, Mary Ann’s brother, George, worked alongside another young man named Robert (Bob) Hafften, Sr. According to the story told by Bob, George told him he needed to meet his sister, Mary Ann, and take her out for a date. Bob and Mary Ann began dating soon after and were united in marriage on August 20, 1960, at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in Delano.

Following high school, Mary Ann worked as a secretary for B.F. Nelson, a roofing manufacturer in Minneapolis. She often recalled fondly her time working there, especially the gifts she received from the owners.

After marrying Bob, Mary Ann dedicated her time to being a homemaker, caring for their three sons, Michael, Robert Jr. and Daniel. She enjoyed sewing, taking ceramic classes with her mother, baking and gardening. Her pumpkin bars were a requested favorite for family gatherings and potlucks. At Christmas, she liked to make sour cream sugar cookies and Polish fruitcakes. She was grateful to serve as a eucharistic minister for her church, St. Mary of Czestochowa Catholic Church, visiting church members confined to their homes.

Preceded in death by her husband Robert Sr.; son Daniel; siblings Joe, George, and Kate.

Mary Ann is survived by her sons Michael (Leanna), and Robert Jr. (Teresa); grandchildren Sara and Kyle; great-grandchild Zyle; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at St. Mary of Czestochowa Catholic Church in rural Delano, Minnesota. A visitation will be held from 4-8 PM, with an 8 PM prayer service on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at the Iten Funeral Home in Delano, Minnesota. Visitation will continue Wednesday from 10-11 AM, with a 9:45 AM rosary service prior to Mass, at the church. Interment in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Delano, Minnesota.