COLUMBUS
Margaret A. O’Toole passed from this life at Our Hospice inpatient facility on Sunday, August 29, 2021 after a brief illness. She was 102 years old, and just 2 weeks shy of her 103rd birthday. Margaret was born on September 12, 1918 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, the daughter and only child of Alfred and Vie Grover Peterson. She was raised in Chicago, Illinois where she graduated at the age of 16 from Amundsen High School. Margaret attended Wright Jr. College for 1 year when, out of necessity, quit school and worked at the original Marshall Fields in downtown Chicago.
In 1939 Margaret married William J Schulz. He passed away unexpectedly in 1942. She married Raymond R. O’Toole in 1944, who preceded her in death in 1992. She moved to Columbus in 1993 to be near her daughter, Carol Kent. Margaret loved living in Columbus where she continued her active lifestyle. She was a 14 year member of Golden K Kiwanis, and was a mentor through the Foster Grandparents program. She was a prolific water color artist, a season ticket holder and supporter of the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, a world traveler, and an avid reader. She swam several times a week at the Foundation for Youth until she was in her mid 90’s. She frequently swam a mile and was honored with the installation of a board titled “Margaret’s Mile Club” where other swimmers could record their accomplishments.
Margaret was a Christian and enjoyed attending church for many years. She was known for her kindness, her smile and optimistic personality. She loved life. She adored her family and cherished every moment with them. Equally loved by her family she will be missed, but the many stories about her life will be remembered. Margaret was an amazing woman who lived her life to the fullest.
Survivors include her children; Carol Kent of Columbus, Gary (JoAnn) O’Toole of Fairfax Station, Virginia; 9 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; son, William A. O’Toole; and a grandson, Danny O’Toole.
In keeping with Margaret’s wishes cremation will take place and a graveside service will be held at a later date at Garland Brook Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Barkes, Weaver & Glick Funeral Home. Memorials may be given through the funeral home to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana or the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic. Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the O’Toole family at barkesweaverglick.com.
