Margaret Ruth (Ward) Lofgren

Margaret Ruth Lofgren, lovingly known as Margaret, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025, at the age of 79 in Niles, Michigan.

Born on May 23, 1945, in Gillespie, Illinois, to the late Harold Ward and Harriett Deck, Margaret's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and family.

Margaret's early years were spent in the close-knit community of Gillespie, where she attended local schools and formed lifelong friendships. Her warmth and generosity of spirit were evident from a young age, and these qualities only deepened as she grew into a woman of strong faith and conviction.

On October 3, 1975, Margaret married the love of her life, Richard C. Lofgren, in a ceremony that celebrated their shared values and commitment to each other. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and the blessing of four children: Tammy Cody of Mill Creek, Crystal (Eddie) Mejia of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Melissa (Steven) Gray of Niles, Michigan, and Curtis Lofgren of Rolling Prairie. She was preceded by a daughter, Cynthia Lindsay. Margaret's heart swelled with pride for her family, and her role as a homemaker was one she cherished deeply. Richard preceded her in death on August 18, 2009, leaving a legacy of love that Margaret carried forward with grace.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Margaret's eleven grandchildren were the light of her life. She nurtured each of them with the same love, kindness, and faith that she had been known for throughout her life. Her grandchildren will forever cherish the memories of time spent with their beloved "Grandma Margaret," whose influence will continue to guide them.

Margaret's siblings, Mary Catherine Hood of Hazen North Dakota, Sonny Ward of Gillespie, Illinois, and Debbie Ward of Gillespie, Illinois, remember her as a beacon of love and strength within the family. Her presence brought comfort and joy to every gathering, and her absence will be deeply felt.

A faithful member of Friendship Baptist Church in La Porte, Margaret lived her faith through action. She was a social butterfly, often found at the heart of church activities, sharing her love for Jesus and her passion for community. Her kindness extended beyond the walls of the church, touching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Margaret's life was marked by her loving nature, her kind heart, and her unwavering faith. She was a friend to many, always ready with a smile, a kind word, or a helping hand. Her gentle spirit and caring demeanor earned her the love and respect of those around her, and her legacy of love will continue to inspire those she has left behind.

Visitation will be held from 9 AM to 11 AM (CST), on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.

A Funeral Service will follow at 11 AM (CST) in the Funeral Home.

Burial will be at Patton Cemetery.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Margaret’s life or leave a message of comfort for her family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

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