Maria de Angeles Herda

To watch a recording of the Prayer Service, please use the link: https://youtu.be/R2auj_ZaTT8
To watch a recording of the Mass of Christian Burial, please use the link: https://youtu.be/HTC82oyGV44 

Maria A. Herda, 91, of Grand Forks, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026. Born in Mexico City, Mexico, on August 5, 1934, to José Gutiérrez Alzua and Ignacia Hernández Amador, Maria demonstrated unwavering devotion and strength from a young age. After her father's passing, she left school to work alongside her mother, helping to provide for their family.

Maria later immigrated to the United States, settling in Chicago. On December 30, 1972, she married Matthew George C. Herda, and together they built their home in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Maria worked at St. Michael’s Hospital, United Hospital, and Altru Health System, often assisting by translating for Spanish-speaking families.

Faith and family were at the heart of Maria’s life. Her deep devotion to God, Jesus Christ, and Our Lady of Guadalupe guided her actions. She attended church several times a week, hosted rosaries in her home, and volunteered at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, St. Joseph’s Summer Lunch Program, and Safe Kids Grand Forks.

Maria made countless sacrifices for her husband, children, and grandchildren, always encouraging them to reach their fullest potential and loving them unconditionally.

Having experienced the challenges of immigration, Maria extended kindness and compassion to others. She understood what it meant to be overlooked or judged and made a point of helping those around her feel seen, respected, and valued. Her warmth drew people to her in every setting, whether at the store, a restaurant, or simply along the street.

Maria’s generosity and hospitality were boundless. Her home was a welcoming place for all, where coffee, conversation, and homemade rhubarb cake were always available. Her kitchen was open to family, friends, neighbors, and anyone stopping by, embodying her belief that “No one goes hungry.”

She found joy in the outdoors, tending her garden and feeding birds and squirrels.

Maria is survived by her children, George Herda (Jill Baptist) and Francis “Frank” Herda (April Holweger); her grandchildren, Paige Herda, Josephine “Jozie” Herda, Logan Herda, and Dominick Herda; former daughters-in-law, Lisa Caskins and Hannah Somerfield; her sisters, Yolanda and Josefina; her goddaughter, Ana Paola; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Matthew, her sister, Guillermina, and her parents.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Visitation is Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Amundson Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m., with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow in Lankin, ND.