Margaret Kempke passed away Oct. 8, 2025, after a short illness at the age of 88.
Margaret was born June 6, 1937, to the late Ervin and Mary Clement of Milwaukee. After her father’s passing, her mother moved to the Spruce area and married Edward Marith.
In 1954, Margaret met and married Wallace Kempke on June 19. That was the beginning of a farming career that was to span over 65 years. She enjoyed every aspect of the farming business. For years, they had all registered animals, and she took great pride in building and expanding the herd and farm. It was important for her to live and raise her family in a country style. Many times she said that if she had the chance to redo it all again, she wouldn’t change a thing.
Margie and Wally enjoyed spending time traveling when they could. They were lucky enough to visit all 48 lower states.
She also enjoyed the company of her little chihuahuas. Anyone who knew her knew her dog, Pepsi. Pepsi traveled everywhere with her, even on the tractor doing field work. In later years, she filled her spare time with reading. It was her very favorite pastime. She would spend hours entranced in a good story. Margie would also listen to music and especially loved old country music.
Margaret is survived by her sister, Josie (Lee) Silver; her son, Stanley Kempke; her daughter, Penny (Steve) Cole; granddaughter, Amanda (Matthews) Sykes; nieces and nephews, Donna (Meynell) Voegtline, David (Brenda) Behling, Chris (Denise) Kempke and Dean Kempke.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Wallace Kempke; and grandson, Myles Kempke-Cole.
In accordance with her wishes, no formal services will be held.
