Margaret Peterson, at the age of 90, passed away on September 23, 2023, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. On the one-year anniversary of her passing, we’d like to honor her memory, which remains bright and beloved in our hearts.
Margaret was born on January 28, 1933, in Sault Ste. Marie, to Hugh and Harriett (nee Cunningham) Wright. She grew up as one of four children in a humble home in the city’s west end. She graduated from Collegiate High School and attended nursing school.
After completing her studies, Margaret started a career in pediatric nursing. At a local dance, she was introduced to a friend of a friend. His name was Albert, and they’d remain side-by-side for the next 60-plus years.
The couple married in 1958 and soon welcomed two sons, Andrew and Mark. Margaret was a devoted mother, supporting them through countless hockey and baseball games, and hospital visits. As a family, they loved camping; some of their favorite spots were Wawa, Harmony Beach, and St. Joseph’s Island. One of their many fond memories was a month-long road trip through the U.S. and Canada, during which they even spent three days in Disneyland.
Margaret had a deep affinity for animals, serving as President and on the board of the Sault Ste. Marie Humane Society for many years. She was always bringing home strays and rescues; the family had at least two dogs and two cats at all times. She took pleasure in obedience training, and often took the dogs to shows around the area.
Once her sons were grown, Margaret decided she wanted a career change. She got her bachelor’s degree from Lake Superior State, then taught nursing at Sault College for a number of years. But she missed the hands-on care of nursing — and eventually capped off her career working with seniors at the F. J. Davey Home, a role that she cherished.
Margaret was a kind and giving soul who dedicated her life to helping others. She was well-liked by all, and had many lifelong friends. One of her favorite activities was gabbing with them over a good game of bridge. She was practical and calm; soft spoken and a good listener. That said, she was stubborn: You did not want to get into an argument with her because she’d probably win.
Margaret was intelligent. She was a staunch defender of rights for all beings — both human and animal — and was always up-to-date on world issues. She was an avid reader who loved learning about history, science, and geography. She also admired the arts, and enjoyed playing her piano.
She felt most at home in nature, choosing to spend as much time as possible on Lake Superior, among the plants and the trees. She enjoyed traveling, too: Most recently, she went to England and Ireland to explore her roots. Later in life, she loved watching Jeopardy with her son, Andrew, where her broad knowledge would shine. She also adored the two feral cats that she’d brought in from the backyard: Mr. Misty and Ms. Pepper.
We will never forget Margaret — our dear sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend — because her generosity and compassion lives on in the countless hands she held, ears she scratched, and lives she touched.
Margaret was predeceased by her husband, Albert W. Peterson; her sister, Grace Nelson, her brothers, Jack and David Wright. She is survived by her sons, Andrew (Marla) and Mark Peterson (Leslie); her grandchildren, Cory and Brittney Peterson; her nieces, Elizabeth McLean, Margaret Clark, and Patsy Robineau (Dan); Harriet who is now reunited with her aunt (Steve); and many more beloved family members and friends.
Margaret’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of 3C at the Sault Area Hospital for their compassion and kindness.
In lieu of flowers, in-memoriam donations may be made to Arch Hospice, Humane Society or to a charity of your choice.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).