SMITH (NEE SNOW), Margaret Joanne “Peggy”

Peggy has left for her next great adventure. The travel section isn’t what it once was, so here we are. She sailed away on an ocean of love Sunday night in Calgary. Evicted from her amniotic suite on May 31,1962 she clocked in as Margaret Joanne Snow. The singularity she became arrived with six siblings ahead of her. From the start she was in a hurry to catch up. Nature didn’t give her much length, but it compensated with a stubbornly determined spirit and a quick temper. Easily moved to laughter or tears, family and friends would remain the centre of her universe. They were also the best way to reach the top shelf.

Armed with skills sharpened on the stone of sibling rivalry, Peg could be a formidable foe or a passionately loyal friend. She was a true sisters-sister that sometimes came for a fight but stayed for the hugs. A generous host and talented chef, she never really mastered the ballet of knives and fingers without first aid. Peggy’s character was a crucible of generations. From the maternal side came a glare that could cool lava, infectious laughter and a fondness for the sound of distant bagpipes. Paternal contributions included a powerful curiosity and courage to explore the unknown all bundled with enough cowboy adjectives to make a rig hand blush. The Peggy experience was certainly not for the faint of heart. But for those who dared it was a rush!

Fiercely competitive, she thrived on exhilaration at the pointy end of a risk. Peg never met a thrill she didn’t like. If it flew or fell or just went fast, Peg was in line for a ticket. With an appetite for adventure and a modest disregard for rules, it didn’t take long for the short kid to carve her own path. There were some bumps along the way, but her affable sass opened doors and cultivated friendships in sales, addiction counseling and just getting groceries.

Those of us who watched her prepare for this journey saw that curiosity-fueled courage first hand. She remained stubbornly positive. When there were doubts Peg managed to squeeze out moments of joy. Frustrated and impatient with callous or dismissive treatment, she endured. However, it may take decades before anything can be grown near a spot where that maternal glare landed. Throughout, Peggy’s soul partner Ken, family and the universal sisterhood were relentless with their support.

Peggy mastered living the moment.  As a result, friendship and fellowship poured into her world. She may have left us to explore a new adventure, but her light hasn’t dimmed. It shines in the memories made together with each conversation, drink or selfie.  Peggy parties will be organized so we can toast her journey together. Watch for an announcement. In lieu of sadness, commit kindness for a stranger, go skinny dipping, learn to fly. Do something that makes your heart pound and takes your breath away. Do it all! Safe travels Pegs. Love you!