Peggy Anne Margenau

We lovingly celebrate the life of Peggy Anne Margenau, born November 4, 1954, who peacefully passed away on September 4, 2025. A cherished daughter, mother, grandmother, and friend, Peggy leaves behind a rich legacy defined by family, a love of the outdoors, education, and music—gifts that will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.

Peggy dedicated her life to nurturing young minds as an elementary music teacher in Minneapolis Public Schools, inspiring countless students through her passion and creativity. Her devotion to music extended beyond the classroom; she thrived as aquatic director and founder of the McCarthy Gym Day Camp at the University of St. Thomas, enriching the lives of many children.

A lifelong Girl Scout, Peggy’s journey from Scout to Camp Counselor to Troop Leader shaped her love of adventure and community. Every summer, she took her daughters on unforgettable camping trips across the country—an annual tradition where the skills and values learned through Girl Scouts came alive in the wilderness. Those journeys fostered a deep bond with nature and each other, weaving stories of exploration, resilience, and joy that carried through their lives.

At home, Peggy created a warm and nurturing sanctuary filled with laughter, music, and the gentle companionship of her beloved cats. She was a devoted mother to Melanie (Robert Witke) Margenau, Amanda (Jesse) McKay, and Molly (Jonathan) Olsen; and a treasured grandmother to Finley and Harvey Olsen, and Tiger, LadyBear, and CoCoPuff. Peggy was preceded in death by her husband, James Roy Margenau, and her parents, James Lester and Charlotte Marie Shaffer.

Peggy’s indomitable spirit and zest for life will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know her. The family invites friends, loved ones, and colleagues to honor her remarkable life with a donation to the Minneapolis Public School Memorial Fund (please contact O’Connell Funeral Home for details). A private scattering of ashes will take place later this year.