Marguerite “Peggy” Marquette

Marguerite Marquette, affectionately known as “Peggy,” peacefully passed away on August 26, 2024, at the age of 92. Born in Lake City, Minnesota, on May 13, 1932, to George and Bernice Schmidt, Peggy was the middle of nine children. Remarkably, Peggy was the first in her family to be born in a hospital. She grew up in a loving Catholic home, attending Catholic school in Minnesota before beginning her career at the renowned Mayo Clinic.

It was in Minnesota that Peggy met her future-husband, Clifford Marquette, at a dance. After dating for a year, they married and embarked on an adventure to California in a 1955 Chevy filled with wedding gifts. The two settled in Sacramento, where they started their family and raised their three children. Peggy and Clifford shared an extraordinary 48 years of marriage until Clifford’s passing in 2004.

Peggy was known for her strong work ethic and her love for children. In the early years of her marriage, Peggy ran a childcare business from home and later worked at a nursery school. Once her own children were grown, Peggy began working for the State of California, where she stayed until her retirement.

Peggy had a passion for music, with a particular fondness for Neil Diamond, attending his concerts whenever she could. A skilled and competitive card player, Peggy earned a reputation as a formidable opponent in family games. She also had a love for casinos, especially playing the slot machines! Peggy’s enthusiasm for shopping was equally well known – she was always on the lookout for a sale and loved a good deal.

A dedicated homemaker, Peggy took great pride in maintaining an immaculate home. She was also an avid reader, always with a good book nearby. Holidays, especially Christmas, were a highlight in Peggy’s life. She began preparing months in advance and made every celebration special for her family.

Peggy is survived by her children: Doug and his wife Tricia, Cheryl and her husband Daryl, and Lori and her husband Deake. She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Jordan, Michael, Zachary, Nathan, Christina, Kristen, and Katie. Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, eight siblings, and husband Clifford.

Peggy will be warmly remembered for her love as a wife, mother, and grandma, as well as for her generous spirit. Her smile, humor, warmth, and joyful presence will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

A Rosary will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 10:30am followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am and Committal Services at 12:00 pm at Calvary Cemetery and Funeral Center, 7100 Verner Avenue, Citrus Heights, CA 95621.