Margaret Ann (Michael) Maricle

Buckeye - Margaret Ann (Michael) Maricle passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and deep faith.

She was born in Bluefield, West Virginia, the only child of Randolph Earl and Margaret Elizabeth Michael. She grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, graduated from West High School, and earned her degree in education from the University of Tennessee (Go Vols!).

After college, Margaret Ann moved to Virginia Beach with her best friend to teach-and, as they joked, to meet Navy officers. Both goals were met. She married Ensign Robert Maricle on June 18, 1966, and they flew to California the very next day to start their life together.

Margaret Ann taught English in Southern California before settling in San Luis Obispo County in 1976. There, she taught first grade, earned a master's degree in reading from Cal Poly, and went on to teach in Cuesta College's Special Education department until retirement.

In 2014, she and Bob moved to Sandpoint, Idaho, where they built a home and made lasting friendships. They later relocated to Buckeye, Arizona, to enjoy the sun and a new community.

Margaret Ann was deeply involved in her churches-Trinity United Methodist in Los Osos, First Presbyterian Church of San Luis Obispo, and First Presbyterian Church of Sandpoint-serving as an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister. She also played piano for worship services and elementary school choirs, sharing her quiet talent with joy. A dedicated member of P.E.O., she remained active in chapters throughout California, Idaho, and Arizona, even helping found the chapter in Sun City Festival. She enjoyed reading and writing and wrote and published a book on the founding of Cayucos, California, and the history behind the Cass House, built by the man who founded the town.

She embraced adventure, travel, and life's occasional misfortunes-including an armed robbery abroad-with humor, grace, and a preference for good chocolate over drama. She found joy in books, deep conversations, and the company of friends and family.

Preceded in death by her parents, Margaret Ann is survived by her husband, Bob; son Michael (Ines) of Santa Fe, New Mexico; and son Jeff (Kerrie) of Sandpoint, Idaho. She also welcomed Kerrie's sons, Zane and Brice, into her heart and family. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

A memorial for Margaret Ann will be held June 21st, at 10:30 AM at Desert Palms Presbyterian Church, 13459 West Stardust Blvd, Sun City West, AZ, 85375. The memorial will be live streamed at www.desertpalmschurch.org.

Donations in Margaret Ann's memory can be made to P.E.O. International online or by mail. Their website is https://www.peointernational.org/