Margaret Joseph, 94, passed away Sunday, May 17, 2020 in Lake Forest, CA of natural causes, or as she was known to say at a doctor visit, in a serious tone and in jest, "my problem is just TMB…too many birthdays."She was a loving Mother, wife, Gram and Great Gram, friend, pianist and organist, business manager, bookkeeper, cook, seamstress, and enjoyed a good discussion on "investments!" She loved Montana and her Montana friendships lasted a lifetime. She will be fondly remembered for her caring spirit, wise advice, humor, and strength through hardships.Conversation-a long phone call, and debates with her will be greatly missed.
Margaret was born in 1926 in Lewistown, MT, the daughter of George and Daisy (Apple) Ruckman.Her childhood memories included growing up with loving parents, being surrounded at holidays by Great grandparents, grandparents, and cousins.She grew up in a neighborhood of boys for playmates and was quite a "tomboy" until she found her interest in piano and began taking lessons at age 8 from a Juilliard School of Music graduate.She attended many Class of '44 reunions. Following graduation from Fergus County High School, Margaret moved to Alabama where she lived with her Aunt in the barracks at "Camp Rucker" during World War II.She worked at Camp Rucker's Headquarter Finance Office as a civilian.Upon returning to Montana she worked at the Bureau of Reclamation in Billings, MT.
Margaret married George Heinrich in 1947. They lived in Ferndale, WA, Big Timber, Billings, Fox, Fromberg and Livingston, MT farming and ranching.Margaret enjoyed most raising 5 children and playing the organ and piano.She was an amazing Mother and provider while working on the ranch/farm loving her children equally as she cared for 2 sons who had muscular dystrophy.Later in life she said, "Music has been my sanctuary." She played for church, weddings, funerals, and social gatherings for over 70 years always "supplementing" the family income and bringing joy to others.She was known to play a speedy last hymn at church if the service had been so long the "roast might burn!"
Margaret married Thomas Joseph in 1974.They built a home together on the banks of the Yellowstone River. They greatly enjoyed each other and their grandchildren, traveled the US with their trailer and took trips to Hawaii, Mexico, Puerto Rico & Panama Canal.Retirement years (22) were enjoyed in Sun City, AZ where she continued her career as an organist in her church and many other events. She was active in the community as member of PEO, Investment Club, Bible study and volunteering for numerous organizations. After Tom passed, Margaret moved to Freedom Village Retirement Community, Lake Forest, CA in 2013 to be near her granddaughter and family.Margaret's granddaughter and great granddaughters brought love, joy, and entertainment to her.She enjoyed friendships at Freedom Village and was quite proud of her last performance at a Freedom Village social event July 2019 at age 93! She was known for her holiday gift of homemade almond roca, being the "best neighbor," "Howard's lunch date and friend" competitive Wii bowler and smart Bridge partner.Margaret lived life fully and was grateful for the amenities and kind staff at Freedom Village. She was engaged in friendships, witty conversation, and life to her last days and will be greatly missed.
Margaret is preceded in death by her parents, brothers George and Jack Ruckman, ex-husband George Heinrich (1980), sons Douglas (1984), Bradley (1960), grandson Trevor (2013) and the love of her lifehusband Thomas Joseph (2010). Survivors include her daughter Cheryl (Dennis Dennis), Randy Heinrich (Sheila), Peggy Heinrich-Wash, three stepdaughters, Donna Wendte (David), Dianne Thomas, and Denise Nelson (Mike). She is also survived by nine grandchildren numerous great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A private family celebration will take place in Paradise Valley, near Livingston, Montana (where her family first settled in Montana) in Summer of 2021.Donationsin her memory may be made to:The Sjogren's Foundation, 10701 Parkridge Blvd, Suite 170, Reston, VA 20191.