Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Margaret Brown Obituary
Peggy was born Dec. 26, 1923, in Pittsburgh, Pa. and graduated from Westinghouse H.S. She worked briefly in a large department store and, encouraged by her remarkable beauty, began a modeling career that started her lifelong sense of style. When WWII broke out, Peggy moved to Denver, where she met a dashing young pilot named George who swept her off her feet. She and Capt. Brown were married Feb. 15, 1944.
After the war, George and Peggy opened and sold a restaurant in Hager City, Wis., and in 1951 drove the Alcan to new adventures in Anchorage.
The couple bought land on East Fifth Avenue in 1955 and spent evenings and weekends building their restaurant, the Lucky Wishbone, an Anchorage institution now celebrating 55 years. They were named SBA's "Alaska Small Business Person(s) of the Year" in 2002. Peggy traveled to Washington, D.C., to receive the award, and one of her most loyal customers, Sen. Ted Stevens, introduced her personally to the president.
Peggy was famous for her extraordinary ability with names and faces and she rarely forgot an employee or customer, even decades later. She was also well known for her grace, limitless energy and perpetual smile. Until recently, when Parkinson's disease stole her mobility and exuberance, Peggy warmly greeted and catered to every customer -- to her, each one was a personal friend.
Peggy is survived by Harold George Brown, her husband of 67 years; daughters Patricia
Heller of Anchorage and Lorelei (Paul) Brown of Tucson, Ariz.; son, Harold G. "Corky" Brown, Jr. (Jolyn), of Layton, Utah; grandchildren Scott Edwards, Stacey Bender, Mark Edwards, Logan and Landon Brown; great-grandchildren Catherine, Julia, Axel, Alex and Derek Edwards and many nieces and nephews. Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Grace (Bond) Krause and her son, John Allen Brown.
Memorials in her name are requested to Teen Challenge, the APU President's Forum, All Saints Church or the charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Margaret Brown
May 13, 2011
Just learned the sad news. The world is a sadder place for the loss of Peggy. I was truely blessed to have had the privilege of knowing Peggy and working for her and George. My brother and I truely count our time with Peggy (and George) at the "Bone" to be some of the best times of our lives. I will never forget her. My children and grand children all know what a special place the Lucky Wishbone is and are aware it was made that way by having Peggy and George there. What lucky people we are to be counted as part of the Lucky Wishbone "family". May God welcome you with open arms into his Kingdom Peggy. God's speed.
Michael Palmer, Las Vegas NV (1971-1973)
Owen Saupe
May 11, 2011
What a gentle, kind and compassionate woman Peggy was. She always had a smile on her face. It was a privilege to be neighbors for many, many years. She will be remembered by all who knew her.
Lana Gundersen
May 4, 2011
George & Family, Our thoughts are with you and your family. The Family of the late Clare "Newt" Helgelien
Laurretta Fritter-Briscoe
April 27, 2011
George and Family,
You were blessed with the most wonderful wife, best friend and mother a family could ask for and I know you will miss her very much.
I worked at the Lucky Wishbone over 30 years ago and always tell people that it was one of the best places I ever worked. Peggy hosting with her beautiful smile and George socializing at the counter will always be a significant part of my memories. They taught me how to have a great work ethic and were the most hard working, involved employers I ever had. I will miss seeing Peggy's face when I visit the restaurant, but look forward to seeing George and her children for many more years. May you find comfort in knowing Peggy is surely "the hostess with the mostess" in heaven.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Laurie (Wofford) Lucas
April 26, 2011
To George, Lorelei, Corky & Pat,
I am saddened to hear of Peggy's passing. She was the great mom of my close high school friend Lorelei, and my boss for a short time in 1990. She was truly a shining star at the Wishbone, and the world is a better place because she was in it.
My thoughts, love and prayers are with you.
Lois Van Duzee
April 26, 2011
My heart goes out to you all, George, her wonderful sweetheart and companion, her children, Patti, Lorilei and Corky, the sparkles of her eyes. Words will never express the spirit of joy we have all been blessed to share with this saint on earth. All of us who have loved and known her through the years have lost a piece of our heart. You will be in our thoughts prayers! Lois
Diana Frederick ( Cornelius)
April 25, 2011
You will be missed. You were a gift from GOD with your smile and love for everyone.I am so blessed to have known you. Love Diana
Cheryl VanDaalen
April 24, 2011
Dear Corky, Mr. Brown & Family:
How hard it is to say goodbye to a beloved Mother, Wife, Grandmother, Friend. I feel so blessed I was able to spend some time with Mrs. Brown and share some flowers from my late mother's garden with her last summer. We are keeping you all very close in our thoughts, and our prayers, that God strengthens you in these days as you remember and celebrate the amazing life of Mrs. Brown--a true Alaska pioneer. Anchorage won't be the same without her, I know we will all miss her especially us 'old timers' from the early days of Alaska's history. May the Lord be with each of you.
Fondly,
In Christ,
the VanDaalen Family....Cheryl, Jim & Rachel
Carole Fischler
April 22, 2011
To George, Corky and the rest of the Brown Family
We share your loss of such a wonderful lady.Peggy will be missed more than words can express. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Our first meal in Anchorage (1968) was at the Wishbone. Who would have guessed that it would result in nearly 30 years of friendship. We all loved working with George and the Wishbone Staff when we had TriAm Accounting.
There isn't a restaurant in Bend that can live up to the Wishbone Cheese Burgers. They are the greatest!
Carole, Juanita and Teresa (TriAm Owners)
Gary Klawitter
April 22, 2011
In life we are blessed to know some special people. Peggy and George are two that definitely fit that category. Rest in Peace Peggy and may God be with you and comfort you George and Family.
Of all my visits to the Lucky Wishbone, March 27th 1964 at 5:30PM was my most memorable!
Rozanne Timbes
April 21, 2011
I remember going to the "Wishbone" was a special treat, and Mrs. Brown was always kind and never knew a stranger. I was fortunate enough to take a friend for her last Wishbone meal, a landmark made famous by the Brown's. So sorry for your loss.
Joe Facer
April 21, 2011
Corky,
We are thinking of you and your family as you are grieving the loss of your mom. What a wonderful woman she must have been! May the good Lord continue to bless you and comfort you all at this time.
Deb Fitts
April 21, 2011
Peggy always has a wonderful smile and a kind word for everyone she had a heart of gold for those down and feeling low.
My sis and I worked at wishbone in the 70's
George and Peg made working there very good memories. What wonderful examples of hardworking people.
We will miss Peg and the wonderful greeting she had for all who entered the restaurant
Prayers for George and family
Deborah Fitts -Rubey.
Richard Benavides
April 21, 2011
To the family and staff of the Lucky Wishbone: When I first arrived via the Air Force in 1973, I knew no one and on my first time off-base when I asked, "Where can I get a decent meal?" Everyone in unison said, "Lucky Wishbone!" When I walked in the door, the first person to greet me was Mrs. Brown. She smiled, was gracious and instantly put me at ease. Now myself, my children and grandchildren are all loyal customers. Please know that we are one of many, many families who were blessed to have met her and that you are all in our prayers.
karen oney
April 21, 2011
George and family please know my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
vonda oswald
April 21, 2011
I began working at the Wishbone at the age of 17. My mother and sister already worked there and I was just hired to work as a hostess. I was to start working the floor with Peggy on a Saturday. It was a very busy day, as usual, but you could not tell it by the way Peggy worked the floor. She was a ball of energy, seating people, helping the waitresses, and cleaning tables. I know I was kept busy myself but it seemed like I was standing still compared to Peggy. At the end of the day I was exhausted and a bit disappointed in my performance. Peggy was wonderful, she came up to me and gave me a hug and told me what a wonderful job I did. She said she was thrilled to have another Cook girl at the Wishbone. She was always so very kind and fun to be around. Peg, George and the Wishbone were and are a big part of our family. So many of us worked there, my husband, mother, sister, brothers, cousin, nephew, and daughter. I don't think that would have happened if it were not for Peg and George's generosity and kindness. Peggy knew all of us so well. She made us all feel so special and we loved her for that. She will be missed. To George and the whole Brown family, we are so sorry for your loss. Love you, Vonda (Cook) Oswald
Penny Quirk (Wallace)
April 21, 2011
George and family, there isn't a memory of my time in Alaska that doesn't include the Wishbone, you & Peg. Peg's spirit, love of life, and sweet disposition will continue to radiate and live on in everyone who knew her. I'm thankful of having the opportunity to work with her, and to be a part of the Wishbone family that extends for generations.
You remain in my prayers.
donna smith
April 21, 2011
George and family, Oh the beautiful memories I have working with you and the family. The honor you gave me as Queen for the day when I had to quit working to take care of Scott when he was hurt. Thank you for hiring not only me but taking on our two sons, Scott and Rick. I loved helping at the counter but think my favorite job was helping Peggy with Hostessing. She taught me a lot by example and I strive to be as good as she was. I miss your company and especially the hamburgers and chicken, we have not found another place who can cook burgers or chicken like you do. Thank you for giving me the opportunity in being a part of your family of Wishboners. I truly love and miss being around all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Dick/Donna/Scott& Ricky Smith...The Dalles, Oregon
Dwight Shockley
April 21, 2011
Sorry to hear this. Growing up there this was always a treat to get to go there and eat.
Have never found another place like..cuz there simply isn't.
April 21, 2011
Dear George and family: How the four generations of our family have loved going to your Lucky Wishbone to eat that wonderful chicken and your burgers!! We started going to eat there from the time you first opened!! I worked at the old Alaska Freight Lines, down the road and many of us would go there for lunch, too. My Dear Mother and Dad (Claude & Sadie Taylor) would go often, too. You and Peggy just seem like part of our family. We brought our children there as Babies and now our Grandchildren are going there!! You and your Peggy had that welcoming smile that we shall never forget. You both were never too busy to come and chat a little with us.
Now we are in Oregon and miss seeing you, but part of our hearts will always remain up in Alaska - and you are a part of our fond memories.
. Our love to you and all your dear family. Oty & Beth King
Maggi Curran
April 21, 2011
I didn't know Mrs. Brown personally but admired her greatly. She would come into See's Candies when it was still on Dimond Blvd. and I would wait on her. It was so sweet how she enjoyed buying treats for others. She was a thoughtful, friendly lady whose gentle smile and friendly ways will be missed. Prayers and warm thoughts to the Brown Family.
Renee Luppino
April 21, 2011
My heart is heavy with sorrow.
My memories are filled with laughter and love.
My wishbone family is dear to me.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
love Mim
Paul Brown
April 20, 2011
A finer person never lived. Peggy was beloved not just by me, but by the host of people who loved her and honor her life, which was as full and wonderful as anyone could ever expect. She will be so missed. I love you, Peggy....Paul
April 20, 2011
Peggy was the best boss George, you, too!!) and friends that a person could ever have. I have thought often of ALL of you over the years since I moved from Anchorage. Dawna has dutifully kept me informed. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
My love to the whole Brown family,
Margaret Hart
Moses Lake, WA
Wanda & Russell Lewis
April 20, 2011
What a remarkable and beautiful lady and friend to so many. Peggy's heart was one of pure service to others. She was a continuous ray of sunshine through her ever ready smile to my family, to every patron of the Lucky Wishbone and to all of Anchorage. What a life well lived and an example to us all. Her legacy of love will live on in her beautiful kids, lucky husband and all the employees of Lucky Wishbone. All of us are richer because of Peggy.
With love, prayers and deep, deep sympathy
Sandee Bray
April 20, 2011
Dear Pat, How sorry I am to hear about your Mom.
You know how much I thought of her. She will be greatly missed.
Sandee Bray
Scott Jessen
April 20, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Brown Family.
Scott Jessen, APD, Ret.
Pamela Vinson
April 20, 2011
Dearest "Uncle George" and family. There are no words I can find to take away the pain you must be going through at this difficult time. But please know that you are in my prayers and there are precious memories of your wife that I cherish in my heart <3 May God be send his angels to comfort you <3 ~ I love you all <3
Carolyn Wolfe Bray
April 20, 2011
My prayers are with the whole Brown family. A sad day for Anchorage and the thousands of people who call the Wishbone home.......
Roberta Degenhardt
April 20, 2011
Pat, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers today and will be in the days to come. The photo in the paper was just beautiful, what a bright shining spirit.
Joe Evans
April 20, 2011
A sweet, wonderful, loving person. I have the honor and pleasure of having known the Browns for the past 35+ years. Just ate at Lucky Wishbone last week while in Anchorage. We will all miss her. May her family be in our prayers and thoughts at this time.
Lori-Jo Oswald
April 20, 2011
Peggy was always kind, caring, friendly, and warm. She and George were so kind to us neighborhood kids growing up, and they were extremely patient in hiring us all to work at the Wishbone! Peggy was a lovely, shining light in our neighborhood of College Village, and I will always treasure knowing her. Corky, Pat, Lorlei, George, and family, I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful matriarch.
Mark Judd
April 20, 2011
George and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Heaven has gained a saint. Was there ever any one that she didn't show Gods love? I'll never forget here smile for everyone that came into the Bone. It was an honor to have known her.
Christine Matteson
April 20, 2011
Pat, I am so sorry...I remember the restaurant and meeting your Mom. Please know you are in our prayers.
Christine, Matty, Stephanie and Jonathan
Gwen Graham (Cook)
April 20, 2011
The Brown family has been an extension of our family. We have shared many wonderful times as well as some sad times together. Losing Peggy is extremely sad, we will miss her, she will be loved forever. To George, Patty, Lorelei and Cork..... we love you too and will see you on Monday.
April 20, 2011
My condolences to George and the Brown family. Peggy was such a beautiful lady - inside and out. Lunch and dinner at Lucky Wishbone was always fantastic and seeing Peggy just made it better.
Peggy and George epitomized hospitality and graciousness - Alaskan style.
I'm so glad the Brown's have shared their life with Alaska.
My deepest condolences,
Erica Reinikka Draper
(Cy & Lilly Plimpton's granddaughter)
April 20, 2011
There is nothing finer than Peggy and George Brown. My family has had the opportunity to know these two and to have them in our lives. George, I sincerely hope your next 67 years will be as fullfilling as the years you had with Peggy. Bless you, The Anderson Family, Steve, Mike Lisa and Mary Jean.
Sandy Lindstrom-Martin
April 20, 2011
Although I have not lived in Anchorage for 25 years, my three children know all about the cheeseburgers and the wonderful Brown family at the Lucky Wishbone. It truly is a special place!God Bless you Corky, you are in my prayers.
Barb Mee
April 20, 2011
Vince and I are saddened by the news of Peggy Brown's passing. She was an elegant, wonderful lady and she truly was nice to everyone. I remember when George wanted to make The Bone a no-smoking place. Peggy was worried they would lose customers. To the contrary - more people came- ate and got up and left for the next crowd. One of Senator Ted Stevens' pleasures on Anchorage trips was to The Bone where he'd indulge in a good milk shake and a burger. Our hearts go out to George, Pat, and the other children. Peggy was an institution and will be missed. Barb Mee
Annette Blair
April 20, 2011
I will miss seeing Peggy's warm smile when I come in for the best grilled cheese in Alaska. What a huge loss for the Brown family and for Alaskans. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
God Bless
Randy and Connie Hendrix
April 20, 2011
George and family. We send our most heartfelt sympathy for the loss of Peggy. She was so wonderful. We still remember every friday night at the Wisbhone.
AbeLove Love
April 20, 2011
I first came to the Lucky Wishbone in 1961. From then till health forced a move from Alaska the Browns and their restaurant where were we went for Friday night's meal out (the only meal out we could afford in those days). Mrs. Brown treated us like long lost neighbors and George always had a story or tale to recount. We were treated just like the Govenor (I think it was Bill Egan first), the mayor, the judge, and the truck driver. Mrs. Brown always had a rag in her hand cleaning a table for us and a kind word for our kids. A big part of our life memories has gone today. We'll all miss her. I know it's selfish of me but my whole family misses the Lucky Wishbone here in Florida almost as much as we miss the rest of Alaska. So
long Mrs. Brown a fine person who touched many and leaves a great legacy. If I ever get to heaven the first thing I'd like to hear is "Your order's ready, A POP, A MOM And Two Iced Teas".
Abe & Carol Ann Love
Mary Gerken
April 20, 2011
For my friend Pat, her father, and, the rest of Peggy's loving family. Please accept my deepest condolences. It is so hard to lose someone so close and yet I wish you solace in the knowledge that Peggy gave so openly and affected so many lives that her legacy will continue for many years to come. Mary Gerken
April 20, 2011
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow. ~Author Unknown
Deannie Ford and Family
April 20, 2011
Dear Brown Family, we send our sincere condolences to you for the loss of Peggy. She was not only a "bright light" with her sparkling eyes and cheerful smile each time we walked into the Lucky Wishbone but she was every customers friend. A truly wonderful Lady in every sense of the word, with such charm and grace. She will be missed by all that knew and loved her. Our prayers are with you. May your loving memories replace the sorrow you are feeling today. Love, Jim and Peggy Dixon.
Greg Hansen
April 20, 2011
George,
We all will miss Peggy. She was a part of so many Alaskans, past and present. Know that we all are praying for you.
Lucy Groh
April 20, 2011
A loss to Anchorage and to Alaska for certain. May the family and all who shared her warmth continue to feel her presence among them as she goes on to graciously meet us again when it is our time to leave this world.
Linda Travers-Inglima
April 20, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Harold and Patricia and family members during the loss of Ms. Peggy. I remember dad, mom, and all 10 kids going to the Lucky Wishbone for many lunches beginning 1967. Ms. Peggy had a wonderful spirit and will be so missed down here.
May God be with her spirit as she's traveled home.
God Bless you all.
Ken Hooten
April 20, 2011
One of the things I miss most about Alaska is the Wishbone. They have the best fried chicken in the world bar none. George and Peggy got me through many dark days without even knowing it. My deepest sympathy to George and his family.
April 20, 2011
I am filled with many wonderful memories of Peg, she was a "Mom" to me. I admired and loved her, I feel blessed to have been a part of her life, she taught me so much, without saying a word. George, Pat, Loreli,& Corky may the comfort of caring thoughts and good memories surround you now.
Linda Greene
Janet Goard (Saupe)
April 20, 2011
Dear Brown family, What a blessing Peg has been in my life. A wonderful neighbor, a boss that couldn't be better, and a gentle sweet soul. Thank you for sharing her with me to the end, I am thankful to have known her.
Christine Ballard
April 20, 2011
I worked for George & Peggy 25 years ago. But I will always remember their kindness and professionalism. Everyone who knew them, loved them. My prayers are with the whole family.
john schwamm
April 20, 2011
Peg was always the bright light in the Wishbone, never tiring of tending to the tables and customers. George will miss her greatly. My thoughts are with the family and the good memories of all the good years.
John Schwamm
matt jackson
April 20, 2011
hey cork. you know we just went through the same thing so again thanks for your prayers and know that you have tons of prayers and memories being sent your way right now at this time... didnt know you or your parents much but luke, mark and mostly pete has only ever had phenomenal things to say about your mom and dad.. i know your pain now sir and know that she is in a better place. no pain or suffering of any type.. God bless cork and be well
Corky Brown
April 20, 2011
Mom,
We miss your smile. You were the kindest person I ever met. Our family, the Wishbone and Anchorage benefited from having you in our lives.
#2 Son
April 20, 2011
To George, Pat, Lori, Corky, Mark, Stacey, Scott, the Staff of the Lucky Wishbone, and all of Peggy's family, you have our deepest sympathy. It was an honor to have known Peggy all these years.
God's Peace on you all.
Bob and Ruth Schmidt
Spokane, WA
David Martinchick
April 20, 2011
Peggy, may you rip.
I am truly blessed to have known you worked along side of you and been apart of the lucky wishbone family. You will and are truly missed by all. My thoughts and prayers to the whole brown families.
Love you Peggy, David John Martinchick
Perry Green
April 20, 2011
An extra ordinary smile will be missed. A life filled with service ,kindness and purpose. Her dedication to others shall always be an inspiration.
To George and family please know that thousands feel your loss and may you be comforted in the feeling that she is in the hands of God.
Perry and Gloria Green
Showing 1 - 58 of 58 results
Make a Donation
in Margaret Brown's name
Memorial Events
for Margaret Brown
How to support Margaret's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Margaret Brown's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
