Margaret Pertzborn

Margaret (Peggy) Cleary Pertzborn, 97, of Madison died peacefully in her sleep on August 30, 2023. Her family was by her side.

Peg was born April 18, 1926, in Blanchardville, Wisconsin on her family farm, to parents John Cleary and Rowena Bohan Cleary. Peg married James (Jim) E. Pertzborn on May 1, 1948. Jim was the love of her life and her best friend. Over the years their family grew to seven children, Bob, Mary Jo, Janet, Jane, Rita, John, and Kit. The family shared many adventures together including trips to the cottage in Lake Delton, Wisconsin on Mirror Lake and boat outings on Lake Mendota in the summer. Spring breaks were spent through trips to Biloxi, Mississippi for some fun and sun – never a dull moment.

Peg’s inspiring strength was evident throughout her entire life, which she led in her own independent way. As a voracious reader with a keen wit, she was passionate about engaging in conversation, especially those on worldly topics. She always enjoyed hearing what was going on in her children's lives, as her empathy made her happy for the success of others and compassionate for those enduring challenges.  

After the children were older and had fled the nest, Peg spent much of her time doing volunteer work. She was an active tour guide at the Governor's Mansion and a volunteer at the Madison Art Center on State Street for several years. The ever-changing exhibits and creative art sold in the gift shop always caught her eye.

At this same time, Peg and Jim cherished their travels together. One of their favorite trips was to Ireland where Peg fulfilled tracing her Irish roots. Another place they enjoyed was Naples, Florida, where they escaped the Wisconsin winters in their Bay Forest townhouse, enjoying the sun on their pontoon boat.

When Jim passed on in 1996, Peg marched on bravely. She will be remembered for her healthy lifestyle, curiosity about the world around her, and her love of laughter – especially when shared with her children and grandchildren, as she loved hearing about their adventures.

Peg is survived by her children, Bob and wife Karen, MaryJo and husband Steve, Jane and husband Al, Janet, Rita and husband David, John and wife Mary, and Kit and husband Jeff; eleven grandchildren, Joe, Jesse, Rina, Chris, Allison, Tyler, Megan, Jenna, Nick, Eric, and Jenny; and 15 great-grandchildren. Peg will be greatly missed by her children and grandchildren, along with all who were fortunate enough to enjoy her generosity, humor, and appreciation for life. Her spirit lives on in all who knew and enjoyed her.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 401 S. Owen Dr., Madison, with Fr. Brian Wilk presiding.  A time of gathering will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at church.  Margaret will be laid to rest at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Dr. Haas and his staff, All Saints Assisted Living, and Agrace Hospice for their exceptional care. Their compassion for Peg was evident every day.