Obituary of Margaret Jacqueline O'Dowd

August 16, 1930 – Birmingham, England

November 13, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Margaret O'Dowd, beloved wife of the late Bernard O'Dowd, passed away on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, in Calgary, AB, at the age of 94.

Born in Birmingham, England, on August 16, 1930, Margaret immigrated to Canada in 1952 to join her husband, Bernie, who was working at DeHavilland Experimental in Toronto before heading west to Calgary in 1957. She was a kind and loving mother to her three sons, Daryl, Stephen, and Kevin; and adored her three grandchildren, Austin, Dalton, and Hayden.

Margaret liked to draw, tried her hand (or rather toes) at tap dancing, and even learned Spanish. She especially enjoyed playing the piano and attending concerts, from fancy CPO events to simply listening to her son's band play in the park. She also enjoyed travelling, including trips to Paris and Morocco, as well as to Kingston, ON, where she witnessed her son's graduation from Queen's University in 1984. Her green thumb was evident in her little balcony garden, especially her prized crop of cherry tomatoes. She was also a Star Trek fan as well and enjoyed regular trips to Vulcan (Alberta that is) to visit Mister Spock. Margaret worked for both 20th Century Fox and Laura Secord Chocolates (North Hill Mall) during her career and especially enjoyed the camaraderie of her mall friends.

Margaret is survived by her three sons and their families. She was predeceased by her parents, Mark and Lottie.

Margaret will be most remembered for her infectious smile and twinkling blue eyes. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal." - Irish Proverb

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB) on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB) on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

If friends so desire, the family suggests making a memorial tribute to a local animal shelter of your choice in Margaret’s name.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Margaret’s family here.

In living memory of Margaret O'Dowd, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-276-2296.