Margaret Marie Peterson

Margaret Marie (Ledlow) Peterson, 78, passed away the afternoon of December 30, 2018, in Sarasota, Florida, shortly after enjoying a sunny Christmas with her loving family.

Margaret was born on April 4, 1940 in Lawrence County, Alabama. She was the second of three children to Elbert and Wadie Ledlow. Margaret graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1957. In 1960, she married Carl Peterson, with whom she enjoyed 41 years of marriage. Together, Margaret and Carl raised one daughter, Carla.

A true people person, Margaret dedicated her career and life to interacting with and helping others. Margaret spent several years working in banking, at Industrial State Bank (now Comerica) and at First Community Federal Credit Union in Parchment. She also loved helping others in the community find their dream homes as a real estate agent in Kalamazoo working for Ken Bertolissi and later Roger Riley. After retiring, Margaret volunteered her time as a member of the Cooper Township Board of Review. She cherished the memories made and friendships developed through these experiences.

Family and friends remember Margaret as a genuine and giving person with a zest for life and fiery personality. Margaret was often found sitting in front of her house, offering iced tea and conversation to her neighbors. In her spare time, Margaret enjoyed catching up with friends and family, solving crossword puzzles, and indulging in a little reality television. She was a great cook who was always ready to offer a second helping or a dessert or two. Those who knew Margaret will never forget her sense of humor, slight southern drawl, or endearing spunk.

Margaret is preceded in death by husband Carl; parents Elbert Ledlow and Wadie Ledlow; sister Pat (Ledlow) Brooks; and brother Wymon Ledlow. She is survived by her daughter Carla (Phil) Ranns, of Nokomis, FL; grandson Nathan (Matt), of Alexandria, VA; grandson Nicholas (Molly), of Okemos, MI; and great-grandchildren Silas and Fiona, of Okemos, MI; sisters-in-law Debbie Peterson of Swartz Creek, MI and Kathy (Jay) Notz of Amberg, WI; brother-in-law Keith Wood and several nieces and nephews.

The family appreciates the care and support from Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Cancer Society (cancer.org) or American Heart Association (heart.org).

A visitation will take place Friday, January 4, 2019, from 7:00-9:00p.m. at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, where the funeral service will take place Saturday, January 5, 2019 at 1:00p.m. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery.