Athens Margaret E. (O’Neil) Merchant , age 90, of Athens, MI. passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at Branch County Community Health Center. Margaret was born November 7, 1916 in Dayburg, Mi. and spent most of her early life in the Coldwater area with her parents, Vern and Etta O’Neil and her brother Barney. A graduate of Coldwater High School in 1935, on June 4, 1939 she married Martin J. Merchant. She and Martin managed Merchant’s Hardware Store in Athens for many years. Margaret, known to most everyone as “Peggy”, was an active member of the community, an avid sports fan and a die hard maize and blue supporter. Margaret, a Campfire Girl Leader, member of the Athens VFW, a Shriner, a loyal Rotary volunteer and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star where she was past Grand Representative with the Barton Hayes Grand Family. She was a member of the United Church of Christ and of course , a Red Hatter. Peggy had a true zest for life until the day of her passing. She was preceded in death by her husband Martin of 49 years. She is survived by her four daughters; Marcia (Tad) Schultheiss of Holland, Vernetta (Bob) Harrison of Athens, Marta (Daryl) Parlin of Holland and Margo (Gary) Wright of Palo Alto, CA. She is also survived by 5 grandaughters, 4 grandsons and 8 great grandchildren who have been blessed by her attention, love and antidotes. At the request of the family, visitation will be held at Spencer Family Funeral Home in Athens, Friday November 24, 2006 from 6-8 p.m. A graveside service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 25, 2006 at Oak Grove Cemetery, Coldwater, MI. with Pastor Roger Bennett officiating. In lieu of flowers, Peggy’s request was that any contributions might be made to the United Church of Christ, 203 W. Burr Oak Athens, Michigan 49011 or to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by Spencer Family Funeral Home, Athens, MI. To share memories please visit www.spencerfamilyfuneralhome.com