Margaret Kruschke

Margaret “Peg” Kruschke, 81, of Battle Lake, MN, died Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at her residence.

Peg was born August 5, 1942, in Breckenridge, MN, to George and Frances (Boll) Antrim, Jr. Peg grew up on tenth street north in Breckenridge and attended St. Mary’s Catholic School. As a young girl, she established a relationship with her grandparents Philip and Margaret Boll. She would spend time at their residence in Breckenridge and their cabin on Otter Tail Lake. Peg attended Breckenridge High School, graduating in 1960. During her time in high school, Peg enjoyed time with girlfriends having potlucks and get togethers. She was an avid member of 4-H from 1956-1960. Peg often babysat for neighbors and her siblings. Summertime would find Peg volunteering at the Wilkin County Fair, handing out participation ribbons for fair contests. Peg loved dancing. She and her boyfriend, Marlyn, would often be found at the local canteen dancing and having fun with friends. In the fall of 1960, Peg attended Moorhead State University, in Moorhead, MN, graduating in 1964 with a Bachelor’s degree in English, Speech, and Theatre. She obtained her Master’s degree from St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud, MN. 

 Peg’s first teaching position was in Sauk Rapids, MN, teaching English at Sauk Rapids High School from 1964-1966. Peg and Marlyn were married July 10, 1965, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Breckenridge, MN. Peg worked for St. Cloud School District 742 from 1966 until her retirement in 1999. Some of the buildings included St. Cloud Hospital, St. Cloud Apollo High School, and St. Cloud North Junior High School. Peg and Marlyn were blessed with two children, Kelly 1967 and Sean 1973. Peg enjoyed gardening, golfing, spending time and visiting with neighbors, Christian Women’s group, and a Wednesday teacher’s bowling league at Southway Bowl in St. Cloud, MN.

 Retirement life was all about Otter Tail Lake. The family cabin on the south side of Otter Tail Lake was a home away from home on weekends for many years. It was replaced by a newly constructed retirement home in 2000. Peg quickly adapted to retirement taking a part-time server position at Graystone Bar and Restaurant on Otter Tail Lake. She joined a 9-hole Wednesday women’s golf league at Balmoral Golf Course, as well as a women’s bowling league at Shoreline Restaurant and Lanes. Peg loved to read and enjoyed attending a monthly book club meeting. Peg and Marlyn became active in Battle Lake Lion’s Club where she served as a club member, president, and district zone chair. She also enjoyed cooking and baking, hosting family and friends, crossword puzzles, family road trips, camping, gardening, photography, and pontoon rides on Otter Tail Lake. Peg was a very charismatic, kind-hearted individual, and a lover of life.

Preceding her in death were her parents; brother, Patrick Antrim; nephew, Matthew Antrim; sister-in-law, Gayle Kruschke; and brothers-in-law, Merle Kruschke and Delwin Kruschke.

 Peg is survived by her husband, Marlyn; daughter, Kelly Kruschke of Battle Lake; son, Sean Kruschke of Battle Lake; sister, Michele Antrim (Tom Rieschick) of Fergus Falls, MN; brother, George Antrim III of Minneapolis, MN; sister-in-law, Jolene (Bob) Wurst of Montrose, CO; and many nieces and nephews. 

 Per family wishes if you choose to order flowers, please order flowers through Petals and Posies 218-862-5630.

 Celebration of Life for Peg and Marlyn: 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 10, 2024 at Olson Funeral and Cremation Chapel in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service. Lunch will follow the service at the funeral home.

 Clergy: Reverend Jim Bjork

 Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com