Obituary of Peggy Whitley

March 16, 1929 - Innisfail, Alberta
June 20, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

With great sadness the family of the late Marguerite (Peggy) Grace Whitley (nee Manuel) announce her passing on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at age 94. She passed peacefully in her care home bed, surrounded by all her daughters and one grandchild here in Calgary, AB., with her additional two grandkids in different provinces sending much love.

Peggy was predeceased by her loving husband of 59 years, Fredrick Whitley. While she will be profoundly missed by family and friends, after a tough and valiant battle against thirteen years of dementia, the family is relieved her struggle is over, and hope she will be remembered as the vibrant, caring, and highly intelligent woman she was. She is now free of pain, at peace, and has joined her dear husband Fred. She leaves to mourn: her three daughters Alison (Howard), Janice (Dave), and Laurie (John); two granddaughters Nicole (Glen), and Carrie; grandson Thomas; and great-granddaughter Ruby.

Peggy was born in Innisfail, AB, daughter of Archibald Donald Manuel and Violet Manuel (nee Adams). She graduated from the University of Alberta (U of A) with a Bachelor's degree in Botany, in a decade when few women went to University, let alone studied science. She enjoyed a scientific career in various labs for several years. Later, after marriage, motherhood, and other business careers, Peggy volunteered with Saint Matthews United Church, and taught ESL. She was also an avid square dancer, and danced with husband Fred as the world watched the Opening Ceremony of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, AB.

At Peggy’s request, cremation has taken place. To honour Peggy with a remembrance, or as an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a Women’s Emergency Shelter, or the charity of your choice.

The family wishes to express immense gratitude to the staff at Wentworth Manor (the Brenda Strafford Foundation), and companion Caroline Von Eschen, and her dog Max, for all their love, and provision of care.

Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Marguerite (Peggy) Grace Whitley, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.