Margaret Ann Deal
Sep 16, 1940 -
Jan 23, 2026
Margaret Deal, affectionately known as Peggy, passed away peacefully on Jan. 23, 2026, surrounded by abounding love as God delivered her to heaven. She was born on Sept. 16, 1940, White Plains, N.Y.
At the tender age of 19, newly married and fearless, Peggy embarked on the journey that would define her life—traveling by car from New York to Anchorage, Alaska, via the Alcan Highway in January 1960. That bold decision reflected her adventurous spirit and deep love of the outdoors. Alaska quickly became her forever home, and she embraced its beauty, challenges and community wholeheartedly.
Peggy found joy in fishing, gardening, berry picking, Nordic skiing, travel and walks in nature. She was an avid volunteer and worked for many years in food service with the Anchorage School District.
She and her husband built a log home from the ground up, paycheck to paycheck, with the help of their community, where they raised four children.
Later, Peggy and her husband opened Deal's Den Bed & Breakfast in Kasilof, Alaska—a crowning joy of their lives. Peggy never knew a stranger, and her gift for connection came fully alive as she welcomed guests from around the country. Their bed-and-breakfast was always filled with endless coffee, easy conversation and Peggy's warm smile, along with her famous sourdough pancakes and a genuine love of sharing Alaska with others.
In January 2023, Peggy and her husband relocated to Arizona for health reasons and sunny skies. Her family is grateful for the compassionate care she received in her final years.
Peggy is survived by her children, Thomas Deal, Timothy Deal, Kathleen Leadbetter and Patrick Deal; their spouses; numerous grandchildren; and sister, Kathleen Dodd of Florida.
There will be no formal service. In Peggy's memory, please enjoy a cup of coffee—or a scotch and water—and share a story with someone you love.
For more on Margaret's life, please visit https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/scottsdale-az/margaret-deal-12723133.
