Margaret (Kestner) Keating

Margaret was born June 16, 1932, in Houghton, to loving parents, Steve and Molly (Marzene) Kestner and was raised in Houghton with her siblings, Bob, Paul, Harold, Helen, Ray and Jerry.

Margaret is survived by her son, Jay; brothers, Paul Kestner, Harold (Rita) Kestner, Ray (Janet) Kestner and Jerry (Cathy) Kestner; sister, Helen (Kestner) Glover; granddaughter, Kate Lepley; and a lifelong friend, Helen Wuthrich.

Margaret attended St. Ignatius Parochial Elementary School and Houghton High School. She continued her education at Suomi College in Hancock.

Margaret married Patrick James Keating and moved to Marquette. The couple was blessed with two beautiful children, James (Jay) and Margaret (Peggy).

In 1960, Margaret and her children moved back to Houghton and joined Margaret’s mother, Molly in the family home. They were a happy, loving Christian family.

Margaret worked at Bosch Brewery for several years where she was a respected, appreciated employee.

In 1964, Margaret applied for an open position Michigan Tech where she was employed until her retirement in 1984. Margaret continued to work park time for The City of Houghton in the Water Department for several years.

With her children having graduated of Michigan Tech and The University of Michigan and settled in their careers, Margaret was loving friend, daughter, and dedicated caregiver to her mother, Molly, until her passing 1996.

In preparation for her passing, Margaret asked that the following message be included in her obituary: “If anyone asks how I want to be remembered, please say the following about me: Mine was a very simple life – perfect for me – full of love and laughter due to my wonderful parents – Steve and Molly Kestner and the joy of my two children Peggy and Jay – very supportive brothers and sister and their spouses. It was a wonderful life.”

In addition, as her son, I would like to add: Mom was a woman of incredible strength that came from her faith in God. Mom’s faith carried her through life during good times and through the passing of her mom at 99 and her daughter at 37. She lived her life as a Christian and gave of herself to anyone in need. I love my Mom with all of my heart. I take comfort knowing that she will be spending Christmas in Heaven with Peg and Gram. She will be missed by everyone she ever met. She was truly a beautiful lady.

In spring/summer 2019 a Mass at St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church will be held to celebrate Margaret’s life. A Christian Burial will follow at the Lakeview Cemetery in Calumet.

Memorial donations can be sent to the Omega House or St. Ignatius Church in Margaret’s honor.

To view Margaret’s obituary or to send condolences to the family, please visit plowefuneralhome.com.

The Memorial Chapel & Plowe Funeral Homes of Houghton are assisting the family with the arrangements.