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William R. McDonald Funeral Home - Stratford

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Margaret Bachtel Obituary

Margaret "Meg" Bachtel
Known as Meg to most, Margaret Ann Bachtel, age 69, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 8, 2021. A California transplant, Meg relocated to Stratford, CT, in 1984. Having never made her peace with New England winters, Meg retreated to the beach as often as possible and in as many different locations as she could manage. Meg enjoyed a rewarding and ground-breaking career, culminating as the Director of Market Research for a large marketing firm. She spent decades advocating for LGBTQ and women's rights including serving as a leading advocate of the Same Sex Co-Parent Adoption legislation, a celebrated founding member of the Triangle Community Center in Norwalk, and an active member of the Stratford DTC. Meg's love of literature and community involvement led her to become a past president of the Stratford Library Board with a lifetime position, an organization she cherished and for which she worked tirelessly. A self-proclaimed cat lady, Meg also volunteered with multiple organizations to transport, rehome, and provide love to all felines. She had a particularly soft spot for misfits and became mom to many over the decades. Meg is survived by two families, the one she was born into and the one she made. She was a beloved and treasured member of both. Her kind heart, generous spirit, fierce mind, and sharp wit earned her friends and family everywhere. She will be remembered for the love she shared graciously and the passion with which she embraced life and encouraged others to do the same. A gathering at the beach will be scheduled for later this year. For additional information or to share a message of condolence, visit www.wrmcdonaldfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Meg's honor to Stratford Cat Project, www.stratfordcatproject.org or Triangle Community Center, www.ctpridecenter.org.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Connecticut Post on Apr. 10, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Margaret Bachtel

Sponsored by William R. McDonald Funeral Home - Stratford.

Not sure what to say?





Gwen Winkler

April 4, 2025

So many times mention her name or pick up phone. She was a true friend.
Miss you so much.

Gwen Winkler

April 5, 2024

I think of you often and would love one more time in your presence.

Gwen Winkler

February 15, 2023

Two very long years have passed.
Hopefully Meg and Michele are living the way they have always wanted and I know even though gone they are still making a big impact on all.
Miss you Meg.

Gwen Winkler

April 4, 2022

It has been a long year in which I have missed Meg so many times. Her laugh pops up at the oddest moment.
Meg you are greatly missed.

Gwen Winkler

May 24, 2021

The most wonderful friend you could ever have.

Zoe Ward

April 18, 2021

I am both saddened and shocked to hear of Meg’s passing. She was my neighbor and friend, and a great loss to our community. I shall miss her and our talks we used to have at the therapy pool and the parties she hosted for all of us. I shall never forget her. She is a great loss to us all. Zoe Ward

Zoe Ward

April 18, 2021

I am both saddened and shocked to hear of Meg’s passing. She was my neighbor and friend, and a great loss to our community. I shall miss her and our talks we used to have at the therapy pool and the parties she hosted for all of us. I shall never forget her. She is a great loss to us all. Zoe Ward

Judy Hampel

April 12, 2021

I will never forget Meg's beautiful spirit and her joyful expressions. Rest In Peace, Meg

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Funeral services provided by:

William R. McDonald Funeral Home - Stratford

2591 Main Street, Stratford, CT 06615

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