Tribute

Under the cover and tranquillity of the season’s first snow, Margo Read slipped away from early on-set Alzheimer’s disease with her husband Bob at her side. 

Margo was born and raised in Salem, Oregon.  She attended Willamette University as a music major, and playing the flute for her children was an enriching lifelong offering.  Around this time, Margo began her 25 year career as a hospital phlebotomist.  In 1975, Margo met Bob on a Maui beach.  They were together from that day until Margo passed away on Friday, November 21, in the peace of their own home.  Home was also where her two children, Ian and Kelly, were born in their acreage in the Oregon forest. 

Margo had many pursuits, including sewing, gardening, cooking and being in the great outdoors.  She was a prolific reader and lover of music but it was Margo’s character that most bears witnessing.  Margo was a wonderful mother, great friend, loving sister and dedicated partner to Bob.  She lived a genuine life imbued with grace and humility.  She was truly comfortable in her own body.  This was her way of being.  Margo was and is beauty. 

Margo asked for no special arrangements regarding her passing.  This was her humility.  She has been chosen as the honouree for Nelson’s Alzheimer’s Walk for Memories on January 25th, 2015.  She would have been delighted for your support to help bring this dreadful disease to a close for others.  Please walk with us.

On Saturday, November 29th, which would have been Margo’s 61st birthday, there will be a gathering at the house, 721 Observatory, from 1:00 to 2:30.  At 1:30 or so, a bagpipe song or two will be performed.   The family wants to thank from the bottom of their hearts all those who supported Margo and Bob, particularly her care team who showed up every day to help us provide the dignity of being at home.