Margaret M. Peg Marston
March 27, 1961 ~ July 9, 2016
PORTLAND - Margaret M. (Peg) Marston, 55, died July 9, 2016 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born March 27, 1961 in Cortland, NY, the daughter of Gerard C. (Rod) and Barbara C. Mergardt. Peg grew up in Katonah and Bedford, NY where she graduated from Fox Lane High School in 1979. She graduated with honors from St. Lawrence University in 1983 with a B.A. in Economics. It was at St. Lawrence where she developed the enduring friendships with the SLU Girls that would sustain her for the rest of her life. Following school Peg began her career with the IBM Corporation where she held a variety of sales, marketing and management positions. She distinguished herself as a top performer year after year, regularly qualifying for the 100% Club and The Golden Circle, in recognition for her outstanding sales performance. She was a nationally recognized expert on Community Health Information Networks. Following the birth of her daughter Ellie in 1996, Pegs health challenges forced her to focus her attention on her family, friends and volunteering at Ellies schools. She was chairman of the Longfellow School PTO Auction where she led her team to record setting fundraising goals. She was an actively engaged Class Parent and volunteer at Waynflete School where she worked to increase funding and focus on the performing arts. Following her heart transplant in 2011, Peg earned a Masters Degree in Healthcare Communications at Boston University with hopes of re-launching her career. Unfortunately she was stricken with ALS and returned her attentions to family and friends. Peg never complained about her unlucky run of poor health and continued to be highly productive and in her words, pushed on through every day. She was simply beyond description as an inspiration to all who knew her. Peg is survived by her daughter Elizabeth Anne (Ellie) Marston, her husband, Charles F. (Chuck) Marston, Jr., her brother Christopher Mergardt and his wife Kerry, her parents, her special aunt Alma W. Fein, many cousins, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved brother Mike, her grand parents Frieda and Eddie Fein and Gerard and Jeanette Mergardt. The list of dedicated professionals and friends who made Pegs life possible is truly too long to list, but she would like thank Joel E. Cutler, MD, Lynne Warner Stevenson, MD, Carol Flavell, NP, and all of the staff at Nine West Shapiro. And a very special thank you to BFF Nancy Veroneau. Relatives and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial at Sacred Heart/St. Dominic Church, 65 Mellen Street, Portland, on Friday, July 15, 2016 at 1:00 PM followed by a reception at the Portland Country Club, 11 Foreside Road, Falmouth. Burial will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland. To view Pegs memorial page or to share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTullyWalker.com. Peg asks that everyone who has not yet become an organ donor to please do so. In support of her primary charitable cause, gifts in her memory may be made to the New England Organ Bank, 60 First Avenue, Waltham, MA 02451.
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I’m very sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to your family.
– ALEX TEJERA
I am truly heartbroken to learn of Peggy’s passing. My memories began in 4th grade at Katonah Elementary and continued up to our last visit when we met for lunch so we could introduce our daughters (Ellie and Morgan) who, as it so happened, were both about to enter Boston College as freshmen. I will always remember Peggy’s incredibly positive outlook despite all she faced and her wonderful devotion to her family. The Christmas season will not be the same without the arrival of the always unique and clever cards from the Marston Family. Chuck and Ellie you are both in my heart. And to Mr and Mrs Mergardt and Chris, “Foxie” sends a hug to all of you.
– Alexandra Fox Coakley
Chuck, I was so sorry to hear the news of Peg’s passing. I have fond memories of Peg from IBM days. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your daughter..
– Charlene Hamiwka
Thinking about Peggy’s smile, contagious laugh, spirit, and absolute love of life. She was truly one of the strongest women I have ever known, always willing to fight the fight! I have so many fond memories from our years together at IBM. She was so bright, talented, and a fantastic team player, even at softball! And every year, the Marston family holiday card was highly anticipated by all and never disappointed! We appreciated your shared humor and creativity! Peggy, rest in peace knowing you will remain in our hearts forever. Chuck and Ellie, wishing you all my best during this difficult time. I believe that Peggy will be smiling down at you, keeping you safe and feeling loved.
– Debbie Sorkin
Dear Chuck & Ellie … our thoughts and prayers are with you. Though we never met, through your grandparents, Barbara and Rod, we feel like we knew Peg and all of you. Your mom/wife was a fighter – what a tremendous role model. Our love, sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. She’ll always be with you.
– Carole Roy-Lakis & Paul Lakis
I am thinking of you, Ellie, as I have so many times over the years. You were a joy to teach and how fondly I remember your mother’s positive energy as an incredible volunteer and supportive parent.
– Laura Pellerin
Peg, the bravest and strongest woman I’ve know. Her family, was the joy of her life. Ellie’s accomplishments always brought her a smile. Sleep well sweet lady.
– Margaret Hopkins
Peg was a bright star among us. Time and missing her will only reinforce and brighten our perception of her powers.
– H Tim ONeil
My heart goes out to you Chuck and Ellie and all of your family. Peg was one of the most amazing women I knew. It was a privilege to know her and be able to call her my friend. She will be missed by many. May we all be comforted by her love she had for life, and wonderful memories we have of her.
– Teri Holden
Ellie and Chuck, I am so sorry for your loss. Peg is an inspiration to us all. Her humor and her ability to express kindness and empathy are blessings I will always remember. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Peg was so well loved, and a woman who knew how to love well.
– Terry Roche
Rod – Very sorry to hear of your loss. Your family will remain in our thoughts and prayers.Myles and Nancy Lavelle
– Myles and Nancy Lavelle
Ellie & Chuck, I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. Peg will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her. It was always a pleasure to care for her on Shapiro 9. We always talked about family, friends, education and life in general and I always cherished our conversations. My thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
– Mary kelley
Chuck, very sorry to hear the news, hopefully all the fond memories will provide some comfort to you and Ellie in the weeks and months ahead. It is people like you and Peg that made our time spent in Maine a special part of our lives.
– Jodi and Mike Harger
It is always very difficult to lose a loved one. May I wish you peace to bring comfort and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. The best to the Mergardt family.
– Peter Kuczma
Peg was an amazing woman and a pleasure to have known. She is inspirational to all that knew her and her will and perseverance will never be forgotten. My heart goes out to her family and friends.
– Sheri Zarrella
I am heartbroken at the news of Peggy’s passing. My memories begin in 4th grade at Katonah Elementary as classmates in Mrs. Addis’ class and continue up to our last visit in Kennebunkport where we met for lunch so we could introduce our daughters (Ellie and Morgan) who, as it so happened, were both about to enter their freshman year at Boston College. I will always remember Peggy’s remarkably positive outlook despite all that she faced and her steadfast devotion to her family. The Christmas season will never be the same without the arrival of the always unique and creative card from the Marston Family. Chuck and Ellie, you are in my heart. And to Mr and Mrs Mergardt and Chris, “Foxie” sends you love and prayers. Peggy was a wonderful lifelong friend to me.
– Alexandra Fox Coakley
Dear Chuck, My thoughts and prayers are with you, Ellie, and your entire family. Despite the many years since I have seen her, I can still see Peg’s smile and hear her chuckle – she was always a delight to work with and be around. To this day I still make “Peg’s Chile” recipe from a gathering she hosted almost 30 years ago, and think of how friendly, smart and funny she was. My sincere condolences. Kathy Faigen
– Kathy Melanson Faigen
Rod and Family -I am so sorry for your loss. Peg was an amazing person and accomplished so much. I know your hearts are heavy with sadness. I will pray that your memories will ease your pain in time.Warmly,Christina
– christina buschmann
I am sorry that I did not have the privilege of knowing your Peg, but after reading other testimonies, she must have been an remarkable lady. I am sure that the two of you, as a team, have accomplished so much for the betterment of so many. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family during these difficult times.
– Gary Smith
Dear Mr and Mrs Mergardt, Chris, Chuck and Ellie, I am so saddened to hear of Peggy’s passing. She was the most positive person I have ever known. Even before the heart condition affected her, she always had a “can do”, “no complaints” attitude. She was always up for fun, fun and more fun. “Good, clean fun”, she would say. I would get emotional about leaving home to go to Fisher’s Island for the summer and she’d make me go out the first night and of course, have a blast. She always looked for the positive in other people, but she wasn’t an annoying martyr either. She had a warm, playful way of teasing you and keeping you honest. When I was still figuring out life, she had a great job and a cool row house in Phillie. Then, she headed north to Boston, then Maine, met and married the love of her life and together they adored Ellie. I always looked forward to their hilarious Christmas cards. I send my love to you all and pray that her memory will always be for a blessing. Love, Hayley
– Hayley Englander
There are not enough words to tell you how sorry we are to hear of Peggy’s passing. She was a very special person.
– Gerri and Bob Ripp
Chuck, I was very sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest sympathies to you and your family during this time. Denise (Chamoff) Masalsky
– Denise (Chamoff) Masalsky
Chuck and Ellie, Peg/Mom is at peace at last. The strength, courage, patience, fortitude that you all, including Peg/Mom, have shared through the years is truly remarkable. My thoughts and prayers are with you both. As a family you are to be commended for the lives you have lived, the love and dedication to one another that you have shown the rest of us and the strength of family.Love,Nancy Merette
– Nancy Merette
Our prayers and thoughts are with you Rod and all the Mergardt family on the loss of your dear daughter. May she now rest in peace and her memory live forever in your hearts
– Margaret and Michael Vivolo
Dear Rod & Barb,Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. She was an amazing woman but we are not surprised knowing both of you. May God give you strength to face this and go on for Ellie and all the others who love and will miss her.Joyce & Henry
– Joyce & Henry Kusjanovic
Peggy was not only a classmate, but a friend. My sympathies and heartfelt condolences go out to all her loved ones.
– Steve Powley
With prayers and sympathy for the Marston and Mergardt families at this time.
– Andrew, Barbara & Celine Zatarga
Peggy was an inspiration to so many of us in so many ways. Her zest for life and her contributions to her family and community will be forever cherished. We are all fortunate to have known her, and to have had the incredible fortune that she was blessed with Chuck, Ellie and her extended family whom provided such special care for so many years. We now will have to “push on through” with happy memories of a great woman.
– Kristin, Jack, Casha and Jim Kerney
Ellie and Chuck, Peg has always stood out to me as the most positive, upbeat person I have known. She set a new bar for finding the good in every day, every moment. My favorite memory is the Christmas card, with Chuck and Peg hiding baby bump Ellie with a sled. The start of a beautiful and beloved tradition. I find myself smiling through my tears, because of all the hilarious stories that have been shared over the years. Love was present at the start for your family and adversity has brought out the very best in all of you. Peg’s grace has challenged me to be stronger and I am very grateful for the example she set. Heartfelt condolences….
– Holly Winger
To the Mergardt and Marston Families, Our sincere and most heartfelt sympathies reach out to each family member as well as Peg’s dearest friends at this time of profound loss and sadness. In reading about the way in which Peg lived her life with grace and courage each day, we can see how she has left a lasting impact on those around her, especially those who loved her. May you find peace and comfort in the goodness she’s shown and the goodness she left in each of your hearts.In Peace,John and Audrey Coleman
– Audrey & John Coleman
I’m very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
– Todd Beaney
My heart is with all the Mergardts and Marstons. Peg and my Mary are together now as they shared their walks here. They were models for us to know how to live with life changing health problems. LOVE
– Aunt Lynn
With prayers and sympathy to the Mergardt and Marston families. May your memories bring you peace and comfort.
– Karen Clark
Chuck and Ellie,I so feel for what you are both experiencing. I am so sorry for such a profound loss. Spouses and mothers are not to leave us so early. I am sending strength and compassion, knowing that you both will forge ahead in her absence, though with a very large hole in your big hearts. Take very good care, and hopefully smiles from beautiful memories will trickle in from time to time and even more frequently in time. Tim
– Tim Cole
Peg was a dearly loved friend. How honored and lucky I feel to have known her. No one has had to endure so much and yet she still keep her sense of humor and grace. She was smart, she was funny, she was a remarkable human being. What a loss for all of us. I can hear her now, telling us all to “Keep your powder dry”. ….Miss you Peggy. Love to Chuck and Ellie
– Christine Forgeron
I am so sorry to learn of Peg’s passing. Sending hugs and prayers for memories of the wonderful times spent with family and friends.
– Kathleen Gurak
Please accept my deepest condolences. Peg was a role model for so many and had such a positive impact on all she met. Chuck and Ellie, you were such a source of strength and support. I know you will cherish many wonderful memories.
– Nancy Hayes
Heartfelt condolence to all Peg’s family. Peg was a very memorable student who had a strong positive impact on her peers. She helped me be a better teacher.
– Ged Richardson
Rod,My thoughts and prayers are with you and the Marston family. When you spoke of Peg you glowed – such a proud father. Keep those memories of your incredible daughter close to your heart. Peace and love
– Mary Henwood