Mabel M. Foster, 84, of Austin, Minnesota, died Tuesday, March 13, 2018, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, Methodist Campus-Rochester, from complications of lung cancer.

Mabel Marie Rita Leibold was born April 16, 1933, in rural Spillville, Iowa, to Arthur and Mary Ann (Wagner) Leibold. She attended country school and graduated from Austin High School in 1951. On Jan. 15, 1956, Mabel was united in marriage to Herman Foster at Grand Meadow Lutheran Church. The couple raised four children and lovingly helped each one become established on their own. Mabel was employed over the years in various clerical positions. She enjoyed her role as wife and mother and was an excellent baker of cakes and desserts. She rejoiced at the arrival of grandchildren and especially enjoyed watching them mature into young adults. Mabel was proficient at knitting and crocheting, knitting heavy jackets for family members while she and Herman lived in Alaska. She will be lovingly remembered for the many cross-stitch items she crafted for each family member. The Fosters belonged to Holy Cross Lutheran Church, where Mabel was active in the ladies’ circle. She was a member of the VFW Auxiliary and enjoyed old-time music and dancing. Her many road trips with her children, and later with grandchildren, took her to various parts of the United States. The grandchildren recall the quickness at which she took hills, and now advise others, “Don’t drive like Nana or the highway patrol will slow you down.” Mabel was a loving and caring wife and mother who will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Survivors include her husband, Herman of Austin; her children, Wayne Foster of LaCrosse, Wisconsin, Roberta Foster of Neosho, Missouri, Wesley (Mary Ann) Foster of King Salmon, Alaska, and William (Rocio) Foster of Spring Hills, Florida; three grandchildren, Sarah, Matthew, and Thomas; her brother, Bruce; and sister, Diane. Mabel was preceded in death by her parents; and her brothers, Richard and Dale.

There will be no services held at this time. Interment will be in the Grand Meadow Cemetery at a later date. Worlein Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Cards may be sent to Herman Foster at the Village Cooperative, 2301 10th St. NW No. 309, Austin, MN 55912.  In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to KAKN Radio, Post Office Box 214, Naknek, Alaska 99633. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.