Margaret "Peggy" O'Keefe
Apr 23, 1951 -
Jan 17, 2023
To know Peggy, was to love Peggy. Affectionally called, "Irish Queen" or "Miss Peggy," she was instantly adored by anyone who had the fortune of being in her presence. Peggy's uniqueness, cheer, intellect, wicked sense of humor, compassion, generosity, loyalty, determination and thoughtfulness were some of the traits that made her so endearing to all who knew her. Innumerable hearts were broken on Jan. 17, 2023, when Peggy passed away peacefully in her sleep. Peggy was one-of-a-kind, a truly exceptional soul that graced the lives of more people and animals than she could ever realize.
Born to Vincent and Margaret O'Keefe in Seattle, Wash., on April 23, 1951, Peggy was the youngest of three children. She grew up in a charming home with her brother Terence, "Terry," and sister Bernardine, "Bernie," across the street from the shores of Lake Washington. Many a lively Seafair party was held there over the years! She attended St. Edward School (K-8), Holy Names Academy (9-12) and University of Washington. She later attended Idaho State University for her masters degree. Her Catholic faith was instilled in her at a young age through school and church; her steadfast faith was always a pillar that provided her support and peace throughout life's trials, tribulations and triumphs. Ever proud of her Irish heritage, Peggy's favorite holiday was St. Patrick's Day and although she maybe, just maybe, celebrated the day a little more gregariously than the Lord anticipated at times, she always remembered to say her prayers and give thanks for her friends, family and another round of drinks.
Although Washington was Peggy's first home, Alaska is where Peggy planted additional roots. Her family of adoring and dedicated friends in and around Anchorage, Alaska, continued to grow as time passed. No one could resist Peggy's joyful heart and charming wit! She loved and celebrated the nature, culture, history, traditions and people of Alaska. Being outside and enjoying all of the seasonal beauty Alaska has to offer delighted Peggy. Walking her dogs Okee and William, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, touring others around to share her love of the land and, of course, shenanigans of all sorts with her friends brought her so much joy. Peggy was always game for an adventure!
Her family in Alaska also included her menagerie of pets who definitely were her kindred spirits. She had a remarkable bond with any animal she encountered, but her dearly cherished pets were her world: Betty Boa, a snake; Churchy, who was supposed to be a small turtle but turned out to be a humongous tortoise that rammed holes into walls so she relocated him to a sanctuary; Becky, a turtle; cats Jolson/Spike/Buster; and dogs, each times two, William and Okee. Everywhere she went, Peggy could be found winning over the hearts of any animal she met with belly rubs, back scratches and the tastiest of treats. Being reincarnated as Peggy's pet was a wish yearned for by many.
While in Alaska, much of Peggy's employment not surprisingly consisted of supervisory roles: City of Kodiak. North Employment, Alyeska Pipeline and Chenega Corporation. Her strong ethics, effective communication, problem-solving skills, understanding, empathy and kindness enabled her to be a thoughtful and impactful mentor and leader. During her tenure at Chenega, Peggy had a progressive career that started on Feb. 13, 2002, as the Human Resources Director and culminated with the impressive title of Senior Vice President of Human Resources upon retirement on Jan. 19, 2018. She treated everyone with dignity, respect, appreciation and care. Peggy was everyone's biggest tiny cheerleader. Her 16 years with Chenega was filled with professional accomplishments, world-wide travel and tons of fun with colleagues.
Travel was a must to feed her adventurous spirit. She relished exploring new places and loved to immerse herself in the setting she was in, as well as, shopping, shopping, shopping to expand her extensive art and jewelry collections. Peggy's passion to venture around the United States and the world was fostered through both work opportunities and amazing girls' trips. Croatia, Belize, France, Tangier, Amsterdam, Cuba and the Galapagos Islands - where her turtle dreams came true! - are only a handful of the places she visited - the hotter the better for this sun-worshipping diva! Hawaii, however, has always been a hallowed destination for Peggy, where she could soak up the sun and suck down tasty drinks on the beach. No matter where she went, Peggy was always thinking of what she could bring back in order to share her experience with those she loved. Many a counter or shelf to this day has a unique tchotchke or treasure from one of her incredible trips that brings a grateful smile to one's face.
Another passion of Peggy's was music and she would travel far and wide to see the musical artists she loved: The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Lyle Lovett, and Jimmy Buffet, just to name a few. Bopping her head and tapping her toes to her favorite tunes was a delightful pastime that brought her such happiness and joy. Peggy was no doubt the life of every party!
Her fashion style was incomparable and her flair was enchanting. Nordstrom was her mecca and her closets seriously spilled over with the most "to-die-for outfits" galore. Thankfully, she had a sharp personal shopper who could ensure Peggy got her clothes fix - and Frango fix - between visits to the department store - phew! There was not a size 5 shoe that Peggy did not like - everything from low-top white Converse to the highest of leopard print heels. Her shoe collection was enviable to say the least! And her nails - wow - did they have a life of their own! The longer the better: fabulosity over functionality was her motto. No one was more put together than Peggy with her panache!
Also, no one was more giving than Peggy. Her intrinsic desire to help others was unmatched. She was always the first person to offer help to anyone in need like donating sick leave to employees that were sick and out of leave or donating her airline miles. Peggy had an extensive list of charities she donated money and time to. She was an avid supporter of the ASPCA, a dedicated participant in the annual Alaska Run for Women to support breast cancer awareness, treatment and survivorship, as well as a long-time volunteer and board member for Affinity Films, among others. Peggy's heart overflowed with compassion and a deep sense of caring for anyone and anything in need. Always humble, Peggy never wanted anything in return. She was truly an angel on earth who blessed so many with her generosity and kindness.
Alas, there are not enough combinations of letters or words that can aptly capture the essence of who Peggy was, the life she led nor the effect she had on so many. Although she will be missed immensely, her legacy of light and love will fill the hearts of every life she gracefully touched. Peggy often quoted her father saying, "Onward, onward to the Balloon Ascension" when she was ready to go somewhere. Her final journey led her to join her beloved parents, sister and pets in Heaven's paradise where it is always 5:00 and sunny. "Slainte" Irish Queen … Cheers Miss Peggy … you are forever loved!
A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, at 1 p.m. at, Calvary Cemetery, 5041 35th Ave. N.E., Seattle, WA 98105.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Anchorage on April 23, 2023; more info to come!
