Margaret "Peggy" Jean Eichel

Margaret “Peggy” Jean Eichel, late of Saskatoon, SK, formerly from Weyburn, SK, passed away on September 24, 2024 at the age of 82 years. 

She was predeceased by her parents, James and Phoebe McCubbing; her husband, Keith Eichel; brothers-in-law, Leonard Gartner, Aubrey Eichel and Ronald Sjoberg; sisters-in-law, Mae Ross and Donna MacLeod.

Peggy is survived by her son, Ron Eichel, Swift Current, SK and children [Ava Eichel, Regina, SK, Patreece Eichel, Saskatoon, SK]; her daughter, Rhonda Eichel (Mike Kot), Saskatoon, SK; brother, James McCubbing (Linda), Davidson SK; sisters: Bev McCubbing, Joyce Gartner, Janet McCubbing, Edmonton, AB; sister-in-law Deborah Eichel, Victoria, BC; as well as several in-laws and numerous nieces and nephews.  

On October 9, 1941, Margaret Jean “Peggy” was welcomed as the first born to Phoebe and James “Jim” McCubbing. Peggy matured quickly as she was the oldest of 5 children. The three youngest siblings were triplets and were quite the talk of Unity, SK. Her days were filled with school and helping with her siblings.

Upon her graduation from Unity High School, Peggy embarked on her path to becoming a journeyman cosmetologist. After gaining some experience in Swift Current and other towns, Peggy let her entrepreneurial spirit guide her into operating her own beauty salon in Davidson, Sk.

It wasn’t long after that she met Keith, her true love. The summer of 1967 witnessed the marriage of Peggy and Keith. They had begun their journey as “the Eichels” and were eager to start a family. Ronald was first to arrive in April 1968. Peg and Keith quickly learned what ‘colicky’ meant. But, after two years, Peggy told Keith that if one is good, then two would be great. They were excited to welcome Rhonda in November of 1971. They were especially happy to learn that girls were much quieter than boys, at least for the younger years. Peggy was a full-time stay-at-home mom and avid supporter of Keith at work and in sports. On the weekends, Peggy would be found with the other ‘Wives of Earl Grey’, cheering the fellas on the fastball diamonds. During July and August, Peggy would pack the station wagon and small camper for summer holidays. Although camping in the north was not one of Peggy’s favorite pastimes, she did it with a smile on her face (usually) because she knew it made the family happy. There was no doubt she was in charge as she did earn the nickname of Auntie Griz on one of these excursions.

Eventually the Eichels settled in Weyburn. Peggy worked part-time and also did some day care duties and spent many hours volunteering at the local Legion, Grace United Church, on the board of the Weyburn Group homes for over 14 years. Eventually she found herself back at the beauty salon. This was Peg’s happy place. She worked until age 74. It was just pure coincidence that Keith was retired and home most of the day. After Keith's passing in 2013, Peggy retired and relocated to Saskatoon. She found comfort being closer to Rhonda and Mike. Her retirement was quiet. She would occasionally carpet bowl, watch many ends of curling and enjoy time with family.

A Service of Remembrance was held on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. from RD Family Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, SK with Judy Beck officiating.  Interment took place at Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn, SK with luncheon following at the Royal Canadian Legion, Vimy Room, Branch #47, 150 3rd Street, Weyburn, SK.

For family and friends so wishing, charitable donations in memory of Peggy may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan, #301 ~ 2550 12th Avenue, Regina, SK, S4P 3X1.