Mary Anne Louise Green

Mary Anne Louise (Cassens) Green, 93, passed away on October 1, 2025.

She was born on February 29, 1932, on a farm near Little Rock, Iowa, to Jake and Josie (Duitscher) Cassens. As a result of the Great Depression, her parents sold the farm and moved to Rock Rapids while Mary Anne was still an infant. She attended Rock Rapids schools from kindergarten through high school, graduating first in her class on June 1, 1950.

Mary Anne went on to study under Himie Voxman at the University of Iowa, earning both a Bachelor of Music degree and a Master’s degree in Music Education. She taught instrumental and vocal music for grades 5–12 in Toledo and Terril, and instrumental music for grades 5-8 in Centerville, as well as accompanying countless solos, groups, and high school musicals throughout the years. A career highlight came in 1957, when she became the first woman to conduct a piece at the prestigious Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference.

Her dedication to music continued throughout her life. She served as organist at Centerville’s First United Methodist Church for 45 years, also directing the choir for 12 of those years. She gave private piano lessons in her home, taught organ at the church, and was the “go-to” pianist for more than 300 funerals in the community.

In 1961, Mary Anne met pharmacist Dean Green, and the couple married in 1965. Together they welcomed and raised two children, Carol and Bruce. Deeply involved in the Centerville community for many years, Mary Anne contributed in countless ways—teaching at the community college, and serving on the school foundation and concert series boards, to name just a few. After moving to Wesley Acres Retirement Community in Des Moines in 2003, she immediately became active there, running the gift shop and serving on the residents’ council.

She was a longtime member of church circles and P.E.O., and found joy in books, puzzles, and—later in life—the company of her beloved granddaughters, Rachael and Jennifer. She was a true force of nature whose presence touched many lives. She will be deeply missed.

Mary Anne was preceded in death by her parents, Jake and Josie Cassens. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Dean; daughter, Carol (Daniel Vitello); granddaughters, Rachael and Jennifer; and son, Bruce (Rachel).

Graveside services will be held at a later date.

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