She was born on Jan. 31, 1944, in Hamtramck.
Peggy believed in family first. She dearly loved her son Jason (Kelly) and absolutely adored her grandchildren Eddie and Sara.
Due to hardships faced by her family while growing up, she gained an overwhelming empathy for the downtrodden and oppressed. She had walked in those shoes. Her career was in the field of special education.
She was a graduate of Dominican High School and Wayne State University with honors. She taught school in Detroit, Atlanta, Columbia, S.C., and Dallas.
After teaching for a short time in Dallas, she was offered a full scholarship to obtain her master's degree if she would become a special education diagnostician. She received her master's degree, with honors, from East Texas State University while working full time and caring for a young boy.
Upon gaining experience as a diagnostician, she was assigned to duty at three hospitals used by the school district for extra-special-needs children: Timber Lawn, Children's Medical Center and U T Southwest Medical Center.
Upon distinguishing herself in prior assignments, she was appointed special education consultant and materials specialist for 42 elementary schools.
She was president of the North Texas Diagnostician Association for two years, a working member of the Dallas Elks Ladies and a Mensa member. She was a member of Grace Community Church in Plano and attended Family of Faith Lutheran Church of Traverse City during the summer.
She and her husband, Bill, have been married 20 years. After retirement, they began spending summertime at their Silver Lake cottage.
The celebration of Peggy's life will be on Saturday, Aug. 30, at 11 a.m., with visitation one hour prior, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Pastor Jim Vargo will officiate. Burial will be at Maple Grove Cemetery in Grawn.
She will be dearly missed by her family and many friends.
Memorial donations can be directed, in Peggy's name, to the American Cancer Society.
The family is being served by the Reynolds-Johnkoff Funeral Home, Traverse City.
This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Thomas, Denise & Kristen O'Leary
September 10, 2008
Bill,
We are so saddened to hear of the passing of Peggy. She was a beautiful, caring Christian! She will be dearly missed. She is at peace now with the Lord.
God bless you and keep you in His care. Please call us if you need anything at all. Let's stay in touch.
Love,
Rick & Holly Elliott
September 9, 2008
Bill,
Rick and I are so sorry that we lost Peggy. She was a delightful woman who brightened our day and we will miss her. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you.
May the Holy Spirit surround you during this time of grief and may you find comfort in knowing that Peggy is sitting at the Savior's feet right now and you will see her again...
Brian and Janine Smale
September 9, 2008
Bill --
We are sorry for your loss. Peggy was such a blessing and will be missed dearly. May God provide you comfort until you are reunited. We love you both.
Linda Longmire
September 9, 2008
Bill,
I am so sorry to hear the news of Peggy's death. I've tried calling, but so far have been unsuccessful in reaching you. The sadness you feel never goes away, but it does get easier. Take care. Linda Longmire
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Barbara Brakel
September 2, 2008
Bill,
Sorry for your loss.
Barbara and Linda
fred murphy
August 30, 2008
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Grace and Dale Hanson
August 29, 2008
Bill, We are so sorry for your loss. You took good care of Peggy, she was very blessed to have you. I pray the Lord will comfort you in the days to come. We will miss her. Love Ya, Grace and Dale
Bob Klepetka
August 29, 2008
Bill: Just wanted to add our condolences. When you get back, please feel free to stop by. It's always real special to talk "old times". Peggy was so nice to my Mom and sister when they met up in TC. She also bought a huge amount of cookies from Gracie, which we really appreciated. Take Care and we'll look to see you soon. Regards, Bob & Jodie Klepetka
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