Margaret Jean Welch

1930-2008

            Margaret Jean Welch passed away on June 11, 2008 among friends at St. John’s Lutheran Nursing Home.  She was born to Clarence and Margaret Macdonald on September 15, 1930 in Helena, Montana.

            Peggy was frequently ill as a child.  She spent much of her young life in the company of medical staff.  Her friendship and admiration for the nurses and doctors who treated her influenced her decision to become a nurse. She graduated from MSU in Great Falls with a bachelors degree in nursing in December 1952.  Within four years she had earned a position as a surgical nurse, married and started a family.  Although Peggy decided to end her nursing career she had plenty of opportunities to practice her nursing skills raising her two children. On at least one occasion she prevented her young son from suffocation. 

            She taught her kids to enjoy art and music and led them by example.  Her sketch books and paintings are filled with landscapes, cityscapes, horses, dogs and children.  Peggy was proud to be a nurse and mother and gave to others much more than she expected in return.

            Except for a year spent in Bangkok, Thailand, Peggy spent most of her adult life in Omaha, Nebraska.  She was thrilled to return to her home state of Montana in 2003. 

            Peggy is survived by her sister Polly; daughter Jennifer, son Thomas (Sandra) and beloved grandson Aaron. 

            Cremation has taken place and no services will be held at this time.  Please help us celebrate Peggy’s life and make any donations in Peggy’s name to St. John’s Lutheran Ministries, 3940 Rimrock Road, Billings, MT 59102.