Margaret Rhode

Margaret "Peggy" Anne Rhode, 84, of Waupun, gracefully departed this world on Saturday, March 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family in Fond Du Lac at SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital. Born on January 18, 1942, in Sheboygan, she was the beloved daughter of the late Dale and Iyla (Wepner) Williams. As an only child, she was the light of her parents’ lives, forming a close and cherished bond as she spent her formative years assisting her father on the family farm in Ripon.

Peggy graduated from Ripon High School in 1960. In August of the same year she married Earl Heiden, with whom she welcomed a beautiful daughter, Annemarie. Peggy’s nurturing spirit found a dedicated career to caring for others, working at Central Colony in Madison, where she provided support to individuals with disabilities. Her unwavering commitment to her family eventually led her back to Waupun to support her father in the family business.

In May 1969, Peggy married Daniel Rhode, and together they built a loving home on the Northside of Fox Lake, where they raised their three children, Beth and Jason, alongside Anne and they embraced the joys of country living. Family life was filled with laughter and friendly competition through bowling, sheepshead card games, and cribbage. Sadly, Dan preceded her in death on October 27, 2020.

Peggy’s commitment to her faith was evident in her participation at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church over the years, where she found support and strength among her church family.

In addition to her faith, Peggy was a passionate advocate for animals, dedicating countless hours to the Waupun Animal Shelter. Her selfless volunteer work not only provided care and comfort to countless animals in need but also reflected her nurturing heart and her belief in the importance of compassion for all living beings.

Peggy found joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly in her beautiful flower gardens that she lovingly tended. Her gardens were a sanctuary, attracting butterflies and providing a vibrant display of color and life that mirrored her own spirit. She enjoyed the timeless melodies of Elvis, which brought her great happiness and connected her with many cherished memories. Her passions included canning the vegetables that she grew in her garden, shopping and lunches that brought her joy and connected her with those she loved.

Peggy leaves to carry her legacy with her children, Anne (John) Gysbers, Beth (Alan) Verhagen, and Jason (Ann) Rhode; grandchildren, who she adored and were the greatest joys of her life, Grant (Megan) Gysbers, and Spencer and Sloane Verhagen, Ashley (Connor) McLinn and Nikki Kwakkel, and great-grandchildren, Elliott and Roenick Gysbers. Along with her parents and husband, she was welcomed home to heaven by her cherished best friend, Darlene Vossekuil, and many beloved pets who crossed the rainbow bridge.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Judy Cook for her unwavering support and friendship over the years, Father Jerry Molitor of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church for his spiritual care and guidance through the years, and the staff and hospice team at SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital for the exceptional care they provided and for making a very difficult time as comforting as possible. The family also thanks everyone who touched Peggy's life with kindness and care. Peggy's legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered.

In accordance with Peggy's wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will hold a private memorial ceremony at a later date.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home, Waupun, Wisconsin.