Margaret Almyra Simard

1931 - 2013

Salinas

Margaret Almyra Simard

Margaret Almyra Simard, 82 of Salinas, passed away Monday, October 7, 2013, after struggling with cancer. She was born February 5, 1931, in Brainerd, Minnesota.

She was the fourth of five children belonging to William R. and Essie D. Thomas. Growing up as a PK, or Pastor's Kid, the family lived in several Minnesota towns through the years. Margaret attended Osseo High School, where she was once elected Homecoming Queen. She graduated in 1949.

During the 1950's, Margaret became a medical technologist and moved to California. She worked at the laboratory of Ernest E. Simard, who she later married. In total they welcomed six children into their home and eventually, eight grandchildren. Margaret always created a lively home, frequently hosting large family gatherings. Over the years, the family came to include several exchange students from Japan, many close friends and even treasured canine members.

In their retirement years, Margaret and Ernie moved to their beloved ranch property in Corral de Tierra. There they continued to host gatherings of friends and family and be involved in their longtime community. Margaret was especially well known for her service to her church and her PEO sorority chapter. After Ernest's death in 2009, she felt particular joy spending time with her special friends, church family and her Welsh Corgi.

She is survived by daughters, Lynda and Sherrol; step-children, Ernest, Sandra, Suzanne and Denis; grandchildren, Jereme, Michael, David, Scotland, Stephanie, Jacob and Joseph also survive her; as well as her siblings, David, Cate, Carolyn and James. Sweet Adeline, the Corgi, will move to Boise, Idaho with Sherrol.

Margaret's long and energetic life will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 29, 2013 at 2:00 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church of Salinas, 830 Padre Dr., Salinas, CA 93901.

Funeral arrangements by Struve and Laporte Funeral Home. Online condolences to www.struveandlaporte.com