Margaret Muckerman Swift
argaret Muckerman Swift, known affectionately as Gorgeous, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2017 in Lake Forest, Illinois. Born in St. Louis, Missouri on August 21, 1926 to Walter B. Muckerman and Margaret P. Muckerman. Married for sixty-three years, her husband Hampden Mepham Swift preceded her in death on May 26th, 2014. Together they raised 13 children and were devoted grandparents of 23. A Sacred Heart education from start to finish, Peggy attended Villa Duchesne, Clayton, MO and finished at Marymount University in Tarrytown, NY and Los Angeles, CA. Margaret enjoyed her life with spunk. She raised her children traditionally, committed to instilling values surrounding her devout faith, moral discipline, and zest for life. She could be found with her hands in the dirt, nose in a book, cards at the table, stitching a masterpiece, telling a joke, hosting a dinner party or traveling the world. Her impeccable tasteful eye lent itself to her unique interior design work for her many friends and her many rooms. Gorgeous loved her life.
Among her varied and multiple talents, Gorgeous treasured gardening and was an accomplished shiny, red tractor operator. To escape the heat, summers were savored in the refreshing climes of Harbor Springs, Michigan, where she would be smiling under her wide brimmed hat, telling stories that would captivate and keep you wondering what other endearing memories she had left to share.
Over the years, you could always find Gorgeous in good company, walking with her kennel of furry companions. Gorgeous shared a hereditary sweet tooth, exuded a disciplined, active lifestyle, and passed both on to her eternally grateful legacies. Inquisitive, blessed with an unquenchable curiosity, Gorgeous devoted her time over the years as an active member to The Antiquarian Society, The Art Institute, The Contemporary Club, The Field Museum, The Fortnightly Committee and The Woman’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where she was recently honored for over 50 years of service.
Everyone will remember Gorgeous: her quick laugh, ready wit, loyal and genuine friendships spanning generations, unfailing perseverance and being hilariously entertaining, a true, timeless treasure. You will be missed by all of us you have touched. We love you Gorgeous! We had the best mom ever!!
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Michael’s Academy, PO Box 413, Petoskey, MI 49770
Private services and interment have been held. A celebration of life event will be announced at a later date for 2017 Spring/Summer.
Info – Reuland & Turnbough Funeral Directors of Lake Forest, 847-234-9640 or www.RTfunerals.com.