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Margaret Pellegrini Obituary

Pellegrini, Margaret Williams
Margaret Pellegrini finished her 75-year journey on the Yellowbrick Road at dawn, August 7, 2013 in Phoenix, Arizona. She succumbed to complications from a stroke suffered in March. The 4-foot, 89-year old enjoyed life-long fame as one of 124 little people who played the Munchkins in MGM's film classic, "The Wizard of Oz." She was one of the Flower Pot Munchkins and a Sleepy Head. Proof of Margaret's popularity could be found in the hundreds of get well cards from all over the country filling her room at Beatitudes Campus of Care. Of all the Munchkins, Margaret made the most public appearances, criss-crossing Arizona as well as America to appear in Oz-themed fairs, MGM events, film fests and even parades. She was a special guest at countless "Wizard of Oz" stage productions. A highlight of Margaret's "Oz" life was when the Munchkins received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in November, 2007. Only two of Margaret's co-stars survive: Ruth Duccini and Jerry Maren. Born in Tuscumbia, Alabama, Margaret was 14 when she received the invitation that would change her life. MGM was looking for "little people" for the Munchkinland scene of the studio's big-budget production of L. Frank Baum's children classic. With her parents' blessing, Margaret took the train to Hollywood by herself and worked on the film in the fall of 1938. It was released in August, 1939. Margaret married Chicago bantamweight boxer Willie Pellegrini in 1943. He preceded her in death as did her two children, Will, Jr. and Joey and a great-great grandchild. Surviving Margaret are grandchildren William III, Anna, Juliette, Joe Vincent Pellegrini and Dawnelle Mowrey. Great grandchildren are: Anthony, Ashley, Barbara, Cheryl, Dalyn, Elizabeth, Heaven, Kaylee and Shayla. Also surviving the long-time Glendale resident are great-great grandchild Sejla, son-in-law Art Mowrey and several nieces, Services are private, with Menke Funeral Home handling arrangements. The Pellegrini family invites the public to a Celebration of Life in the Beatitudes' Luther Life Center, 1610 W. Glendale Avenue, Phoenix from 1:30 to 2:30pm Sunday, August 18. The family also invites the public to remember Margaret with a donation to her favorite show-biz charity: Valley Youth Theatre, 807 North Third St., Phx, AZ 85004. www.vyt.com.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Aug. 14, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
for Margaret Pellegrini

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Oh Ms Margaret,
It was a true blessing knowing you since childhood. The love you had for children ran so deep. Thank you for all the times you let Anna and I stay up late to watch Wizard of Oz, thank you for all the hugs, great meals and snacks you so lovingly prepaired for us, thank you for the great Halloween costume ideas and thank you for all the times Anna and I were inseparable as kids. I will always cherish those memories with all of you. I know one day, we will meet again "Somewhere over the Rainbow" until then, the joy you gave will be cherished and you will be missed. Was happy all my babies had the opportunity to meet and or be held in your arms all those years later.
Always knew you were an Angel!

Shantel

Friend

October 15, 2023

I miss you nana!!! You are my sunshine my only sunshine!! Forever and ever!! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!

sejla becirevic

Grandchild

March 9, 2020

I met Margaret years ago when she and 5 of the other "Little people" would come to Wamego, KS for our Octoberfest. They would come every year, as the town would put on their stage show, of the Wizard Of OZ, by the local talent, (the little people were played by children-some were my Kinder students). The actors always had time to sit and chat with us and have pictures taken. I felt so special to tell others that I met some Little people from the movie. The last time I went the author's son came and talk to us, and had some great stories. Special memories!!!

Claudia Shibler

Teacher

August 7, 2019

Linda Moore

July 7, 2019

Joseph Felice

July 4, 2019

Margaret was a great lady loved to laugh I was blessed to know her and her son Bill. She had a pot belly Pig my kids would have fun with it when they were small..Thanks Margret for the fun you helped to bring in Wizard of Oz with Judy Garland.

Pam Garrison Donaldson

June 3, 2019

I done appliance repair for Margaret while she lived in Glendale Az.
She was always a pleasant lady to be around and talk to. I think of her often and miss her conversation. Prayers will always follow this lovely lady , God surely will bless her, she blessed mine with her kindness.

Robert Leckrone

December 24, 2018

I sure miss you two very much and Willie he and Anna Marie was wanting to see you but always thought there would be enough time I always visit you and Willie your right across the road from my girls love you guys I know the babies love you and Willie

Denise Klever-Bare

May 27, 2017

Nazarene Mckinney

March 6, 2017

Valenda Newell

November 11, 2016

Happy Birthday Miss Margaret. Hoping the angels & old friends will help in your celebration of all your worldly accomplishments. We miss you terribly, and love you always. xoxo

Carly

September 23, 2013

Margaret, You were so special to us all. I will miss all our talks, hugs and the festivals you were at. Thanks for being such a very nice person to us all. You were so special. You had so much knowledge of the wizard of oz movie. I learned a lot from you. Thank you and God bless. You friend always, Gary Johnson

Gary Johnson

September 22, 2013

Margaret You will always be the "BIGGEST LITTLE PERSON" I ever met, You were the icon of the Pellegrini Family. Miss You.

Lisa Weber

August 31, 2013

I first met Margaret in Glendale during the Christmas season at Valley West Mall. My children were little, but they still remember her fondly with a smile to this day. I was the nurse at Maryvale, when Willie passed. It was a pleasure to have taken care of him and the family. My prayers to the entire family of Margaret.

Maryann Altman

August 28, 2013

I knew Margaret from the Valley West Christmas time in the 1980"s. I also was the nurse who took care of Willie when he died. My children just loved her. It is a memory they have to this day and smile whenever her name comes up. She will be greatly missed. My prayers to all of her family. Maryann Altman

August 28, 2013

Kathleen Shaw

August 20, 2013

Kathleen Shaw

August 20, 2013

Until we meet again, thank you for all the wonderful years and memories...

Jean Nelson

August 20, 2013

I grew up on George Street in Chicago. Joey-girl and Willie-boy were my playmates. Willie and I are the same age. I remember when I learned that "Willie's mom" was a movie star from "The Wizard of Oz". Wow! Years went by and we took different paths.... but somehow Willie and I kept in touch. Several years ago I went to see Margaret when she was making an appearance at a Chicago area movie theater. I wanted to tell her how sorry I was that Willie-boy had lost his battle with cancer. She seemed so happy to see me and we had a nice walk down memory lane. I went to see her again just a couple years ago. What a wonderful lady she was. She will be missed. God bless you Margaret.

Judi Eisen/O'Farrell

August 19, 2013

My dear friend - we have known each other from way back in the vaudeville days. I will always treasure our friendship and the memories we've made along the way.

Know that you will always be loved & always be missed.

Forever in my heart.

Mary Ellen St Aubin

August 19, 2013

I work at The Beatitudes Campus where Margaret lived for almost a year and just before she moved in last October I already had my halloween costume. I was going to be Dorothy! My whole team and I dressed up as the Characters from Wizard of OZ and join Margaret for lunch that day. She loved it! I will never forget when she accidentally called me Judy. We laughed so hard! Her smile and laughter was contagious ! We will miss her here on our campus.

Amy Richie

August 19, 2013

On behalf of the Arizona Chapter of Little People of America - Margaret will be greatly missed. She was an absolutely amazing woman who always thought of others and delighted many! There is definitely an empty space left in our hearts...

gaill blackburn

August 18, 2013

I met Margaret when I worked for Arizona Foot Health. She was a wonderful person who brought joy to everyone she met. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.

Linda Smith

August 18, 2013

Nikki Stein

August 18, 2013

Some day, I'll see you again dear friend.

Foo & Nick

August 17, 2013

Margaret you were such a joy to be around! I first met her in Phoenix. My in laws lived there and suprised me for my birthday with lunch with Margaret then a hot air balloon ride. There was no better gift than lunch talking with Margaret. We had a friend in common Debbie Dwyer. So when Margaret would come to my area they always got ahold of me for an Ozsome time. The last visit, I was unable to make it. I will never forget Margaret saying to come, she would share her bed with me and we would all have a sleep over in her room. Such a wonderful lady. You will be missed by many! Munchkin Love!

Melissa Pertee

August 17, 2013

Karen Owens

August 17, 2013

Melissa Pertee

August 17, 2013

Karen Owens

August 17, 2013

Karen Owens

August 17, 2013

Thank you for helping make my "OZ" wedding day in 1992 very memorable by being my Matron of Honor. I will always remember the great times we spent together not only in Chesterton but in Liberal as well as Chittenango. I am surely blessed to have known you. Don't cause to much ruckus "Over the Rainbow" with all "our" Munchkin friends.

Pam Kennoy

August 17, 2013

I was one of the lucky ones to know Margaret and some of the other amazing Munchkins! God Bless her and eternal happiness with the Father in Heaven!
Rick Burch

Richard Burch

August 17, 2013

The years we have traveled from the West to the East and the nights we have spent laughing and talking. You were at my home just one year ago when we returned from the Convention in Michigan. You will always be in my heart as we shared so many fond times. The fun we had in Michigan at Lions, Tigers and Beers and visiting the malls and watching you play the Oz slots at the Casino! Memories forever!

Karen Owens

August 17, 2013

God bless

JimmyStahlin

August 16, 2013

One of Margaret's greatest gifts was her extraordinary memory, both of her experience working on the MGM film and of her hundreds of friends. I was always amazed that she remembered my name and even asked for me at Oz events through the years if she didn't see me immediately. And she always responded to my notes and Christmas cards with one of her own. The Oz events and festivals will never feel quite the same without her and dear Clarence, Jerry, Karl, Ruth and Meinhardt. Her last honor was as Grand Marshall at "Oz-Stravaganza!" in Chittenango last June. Although she wasn't there physically, she was there in spirit. Thanks for the wonderful years of friendship and my deepest sympathy to her family.

David Moyer

August 16, 2013

Karen Owens

August 16, 2013

Karen Owens

August 16, 2013

Karen Owens

August 16, 2013

Karen Owens

August 16, 2013

Karen Owens

August 16, 2013

Karen Owens

August 16, 2013

Karen Owens

August 16, 2013

Karen Owens

August 16, 2013

Karen Storyland Collectables

August 16, 2013

Saddened when I read of Margaret's death, my sympathies to her family & many friends she had throughout the country. I am glad I had met her and visited with her through the years at OZ festivals in Kansas at Liberal and Wamego. She was quite a sweetheart and will be greatly missed!

Jolene Demoret

August 16, 2013

August 16, 2013

Karen Storyland Collectables

August 16, 2013

I know your happy now Margaret back with your husband and children... I will miss you and all our wonderful trips together! Karen Owens

Karen Owens

August 16, 2013

Margaret was a genuine soul, gracious down to earth person despite her world renowned fame. She encouraged other artists including myself with my music, and my late great sister Jackie Dingmann artist and founder of the Judy Garland Museum. She took the time to write back too when I wrote to her. It was so endearing too to see her travel with her great great granddaughter. At all the festivals she took the time for a special visit, times I'll miss and cherish. Too much to write in this space about such a special person. I'll miss her big hugs and big heart. My empathy and prayers go out to all of her loved ones. With Warm Regards and Prayer,
Mike Jensen

Michael Jensen

August 15, 2013

It has been such a pleasure knowing such a gracious and wonderful friend as Margaret. You put smiles on the faces of my grandchildren and they were so happy to know you. Rest in peace sweet lady and enjoy your new home in

Marie Pierce

August 15, 2013

I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet and get to know Margaret through the years at Oz Fests. She will truly be missed.

Brad Welage

August 15, 2013

Deepest sympathies to the Pellegrini family. We were fortunate to have been neighbors growing up on George St. in Chicago during the '50's and have many happy memories with Willie and Margie. Wizard of Oz is one of our families all-time favorites. Rest in Peace.
Krejci/Blake family -Chicago, Illinois

August 15, 2013

a oz star in heaven I love oz

brandy best

August 15, 2013

Always enjoyed meeting her at various Oz conventions. She always seemed very nice. I'm very glad I had the opportunity to meet her in person. My condolences to her family and friends. Jodi Bozzelli, Chicago, IL

Jodi A. Bozzelli

August 15, 2013

I loved meeting you at Ozfests. You were a blessing to all who knew you.

Miki Entwisle

August 15, 2013

We will miss you in Chittenango, NY.---- Carolyn Wahl

Carolyn Wahl

August 15, 2013

My dear Miss Margaret - Words cannot truly describe how much I will miss you. You have been an integral part of my life for almost 25 years. You have been a very dear friend, companion and even acted as a grandmother to me at times. My heart breaks when I know I can't call and talk to you for hours. Or spend are times together a various events (across the country). Thou not bound by blood, you were a part of my family & I of yours. I have shared with you such treasured memories and so many photos. I am so glad I got to record your voice for my ringtone, but I'm sad that you won't ever call again. Of the many lives that you've touched, your kindness & love will be greatly missed.

I know you are in a better place, where pain is no longer felt. I can see you visiting with old friends and family that have gone before you. It also helps knowing that you are looking down over us & protecting those who truly need it. You're a guardian angel to so many (myself included).

I will miss you so much and love you always. And I know that I will see you again.

Forever in my heart,
Carla (click-click)

Carla Sellers

August 15, 2013

"She was a great and caring lady! She was a friend and a angel sent to earth. I will never forget you Ms. Margaret and our talks and fun times at Oz events!"

Michael Lykins

August 15, 2013

What a wonderful lady she was.
She will be greatly missed.

Carol

August 15, 2013

She was a wonderful lady had many good laughs in Chesterton, In at the oz festivals will be missed.

Judy Blair

August 15, 2013

I am so very Happy i had the Pleasure of meeting You. Rest in Peace ,God Bless Your Family !

Tamara LaRue

August 15, 2013

Miss Margaret, You were one awesome lady! Chittenango will miss you.

August 15, 2013

I felt very special to have lived across the street from Margaret. All of the children in the neighborhood loved talking to her. My favorite memory is seeing her standing will all the children, beside the ice cream truck, and her "fighting for her spot" amid all the shoving and pushing children. Such a special little lady...one I loved talking to. Sleep with the angels, Margaret.

Serenna Wright and Family

August 15, 2013

I love u nana!!!

Cheryl pellegrini

August 14, 2013

What a delightful woman Margaret was. I had the privilege of meeting her in Phoenix where we lived for many years - and received an autograph on a Wizard of Oz photo I had with me. To say I am a Wizard of Oz 'fan' is an understatement. I have many collections of items in my home and 5 Oz related tattoos! Whenever I watch the movie with grandchildren, etc. I am always sure to point out Ms. Pellegrini in the movie. Many blessings to her family and condolences. Wish I could have the pleasure of obtaining autographs of the remaining munchkins to add to my prized possession :-)

Lorraine Windenburg

August 14, 2013

RIP Beautiful lady....we love you...always enjoyed The Wizard Of Oz....to her family and friends...take comfort in knowing that there are Angels here on earth to help you all in your time of need.......Margaret, thank you for the autographed photo...we will treasure it always....

Fans.....Kathy & Buddy Barnett

August 12, 2013

To the family of Margaret, I had the pleasure of meeting Margaret, Clarence and Myrna over the years at My Store: Toys and Treasures. I was so happy to have met her, not only because I loved the movie, but also because she was a delight and wonderful person too. She will be missed, as is Clarence. Her memory will live in my heart and my mind, through all of the years I grew up watching the Wizard of Oz. God Bless, please let me know if there will be a service!!!!!!!Love, Kathy Toys and Treasures

August 12, 2013

My memories of you will always be with me as well as my prayers.

Tom Pellegrini

August 12, 2013

I think the Wizard of OZZ will live on and on as long as there are children on this Earth what joy and thrills it gave us and if you were born in the 50,s or before and had black and white T,V. what Magic is was to see color I,LL never forget it Thank you

August 11, 2013

as a devoted fan of the wizard of oz for over 40 years, i loved every character in it. i read the book over and over, and then watched the film every time it came on tv. im saddened that the world has lost a great lady who was a part of such a wonderful story.

monica sullivan

August 10, 2013

LINDA TRACY

August 9, 2013

Another great lady leaves us. The world just keeps getting smaller. From the Wizard of Oz to touring with Sally Rand to being a mom and grandmom, Margaret was an amazing lady and a fascinating storyteller. We met in 1990 and every day since I felt lucky to know her.
Allen Pease, Chesterton & Bloomington, Indiana

August 9, 2013

Margaret, I know you made me believe and you made me happy along with millions of others who "caught the act". In real life, you were no role play, but a super human being. You were a tiny little lady with the biggest, hugest heart! Millions looked Up to you. You were a "lady of wisdom" and moral. You will be truly missed - rip and "thank you...."

T Oz

August 9, 2013

I have long-ago memories of Margaret Pelligrini. When our family was stationed at Luke AFB, we got to know her. She was a sweet woman, and my husband
(Bill) and I became friends with her son, Willie. Also, Ms. Pelligrini babysat for my oldest son, who is now 44. I am so sorry she is gone, but she gave pleasure to a lot of people! My condolences to the family.

Linda Butler

August 9, 2013

As I played the Wicked Witch at the Oz Fest in Chesterton with Margaret, she was always there for support with the children. I will truly miss her.

Marj Woodyard

August 9, 2013

My Mum absolutely adores that film. Ms. Pellegrini will be missed but be assured she leaves a lovely legacy.

August 9, 2013

My sincere condolences to the Pellegrini family. It saddens me to see another Munchkin pass on to be with the Lord but at the same time brings me great joy to see what impact these individuals have made to generations of people throughout the world. My late aunt, Luz Potter was also a Munchkin. She passed away November 2004 at age 90. At the time of her she was number eight of the surviving Munchkins. God Bless Margaret and the two remaining Munchkins.

Jerry Rangel

August 9, 2013

I had first met Margaret through her husband whose name was Willie, they had a son named Willie and my name is Willie. Since I had worked at a battery shop, I was known as Battery Willie. We hit it off from the start which gave me the chance to meet Margaret and her family and some of the Munchkin actors. What a lovely and charming woman whom I shall never foreget. My condolences to all the grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Thoughts and prayers are with you.

Battery Willie KieKush

August 9, 2013

From the birthplace of L. Frank Baum, thank you Margaret for all your time and efforts in taking part in Chittenango's yearly Oz festival. You brought out the child in all of us.

August 9, 2013

What a star, loved her in the Wizard of Oz. God bless her family.

Jeanie White

August 9, 2013

There are probably many people who wish that they had been Munchkins, too. To have been in an American movie classic she will live and be loved forever. God bless and keep her.

Butch Baum

August 9, 2013

I am so sad to read of your loved one's death. The loss of a dear one is so difficult to endure. Our loving Creator knows and gives peace to all those earnestly seeking Him.  Please accept my sincere condolences.

Susan

August 9, 2013

'THE WIZARD OF OZ' my favorite movie and 'OVER THE RAINBOW'my
favorite song. MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!! THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!!!!!

Sharon Kay

August 9, 2013

My favorite movie. Love all those munchkins. RIP and follow the yellow brick road...

Leslie

August 9, 2013

SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR PASSING. YOU WERE ONE OF MY ALL TIME FAVORITE MOVIE AND MUNCHKIN. RIP.

LETIS WONG

August 9, 2013

YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED ON THE WIZARD OF OZ. MAY GOD BE WITH YOU. REST IN PEACE.

LETIS WONG

August 9, 2013

godbless xxxx

August 9, 2013

My sincere condolences to Margaret's family and friends. May all seek comfort in prayer. Psalms 65:2

Dee

August 9, 2013

I'm sorry for your loss. May the God of Love grant you peace of mind doing this time of sadness. 1John 4:8

August 8, 2013

I am so proud to have called Margaret a wonderful friend and a part of the family. I have know her ever since she started coming out to the festival in Chesterton, IN. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. When you hits those pearly gates you will need to show them who is boss. You are loved so much and will be missed just as much. Munchkin Love to you my dear.

Tamara Manuzzi

August 8, 2013

The Wizard of Oz was one of my childhood favorite movies. My childhood best friend and I would watch it every time it was on TV, then we would spend hours pretending we were actresses in the movie & would try to act out the movie for days later. Still love the movie & my childhood BFF made me a Wizard of OZ quilt & I have it in my "Wizard of Oz" room! The Munchkins were one of our favorites in the movie. Our sympathy to Maragaret's family & friends! May God surround you with His Love & Peace,

A Big Fan from Kansas "Dorothy's home state"

August 8, 2013

What joy she brought into the world with bubbly good humor and sly remarks. And who will forget her stint in the WACS?

Adele Densmore

August 8, 2013

Margaret, so sorry to hear of your passing. I never got a chance to meet you! The Wizard of Oz was always one of my favorite movies and I cannot believe only two of you guys are still living! Enjoy being over the Rainbow with Judy Garland, Clarence Swensen, Meinhardt Raabe, Karl Slover, and Mickey Carroll!

Rick Carlton

August 8, 2013

Prayers and Thoughts for the family

Steven and Beulah McKee

August 8, 2013

We have had the pleasure of calling Margaret our friend for many years. She could always make us laugh when we were together. We will miss her but we know that she is at peace. 'Til we meet again...Munchkin Love to you!

Jim and Janet Dolph

August 8, 2013

"The Wizard of OZ" was my favorite movie EVER, as a child. Watched it religiously every time it came on tv. What a "special mightiness" to have lived 89 years. (Psalms 90:10) May the family, friends and fans be comforted from the fond memories she left us.

Kathleen J

August 8, 2013

debbie

August 8, 2013

The one time I got to meet her is cherished. Her smile, heart, and love was larger than life. She will never be forgotten;)

Heather

August 8, 2013

Ms Margaret was a dear lady. She was home visiting one summer. We were honored to have her as our grand marshal to kick off our fund raising campaign to raise the local match money for our day training center for people with disabilities. She was a fun person to be around and was always trying to pull a prank over on us. Prescious, prescious person! God has truly added to his garden.

Janice Taylor

August 8, 2013

thank you for all the joy you and your fellow actors had brought to the generations of viewers. being born in 1959 I couldn't wait every year for the annual showing of Oz. I watched with my parents and the tradition was continued with my children. thanks for the joy you had brought to the millions of us. You will surely be missed

Brian Flaherty

August 8, 2013

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Aug

18

Celebration of Life

1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Beatitudes' Luther Life Center

1610 W. Glendale Avenue, Phoenix , AZ

Funeral services provided by:

Menke Funeral & Cremation Center - Sun City

12420 N 103rd Ave., Sun City, AZ 85351

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