Margaret Ann Russ

We honor and celebrate the life of Margaret Ann Russ, a cherished family member and respected educator, whose life was defined by her selfless commitment to others, both human and animal. She died peacefully in her sleep on August 9, 2023, at the age of 80. Margaret is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Anna Marconi, and survived by her siblings Joseph (Anna) Marconi and Susan Hochanadel; nephews Joseph (Charissa) and Nick (Katie) Marconi, Paul (Patrice) and Dave (Alicia) Hochanadel; along with her six great-nieces and nephews. A devout Catholic of St. Patrick of Heatherdowns, Margaret was driven in life by her unyielding faith, determination, and ambition. She was the first in her family to attain a college degree, funding her own tuition to attend Mary Manse College where she graduated in 1968. She dedicated an astounding 47 years of her life to nurturing the minds of young students in the Toledo area. She spent many of those years teaching second and third graders at the two schools that bookended her career - St. Clement Catholic School and Regina Coeli. Her unwavering dedication to education played a significant role in influencing the lives of thousands - with her students spanning from the Baby Boomer generation to Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. The knowledge and inspiration she imparted thread through the tapestry of our community and beyond. She was passionate about helping all the children she taught reach their potential, looking after each of them and often purchasing supplies so underprivileged students could have the same opportunity to thrive. A favorite among her pupils, she was delighted to encounter them as adults and hear of all they had achieved in life. Margaret's legacy is also distinguished by her deep passion for the welfare of animals. The doors of her home were always open to rescue animals, each one finding a haven and new lease on life in her care. She worked tirelessly to trap and release stray cats, too, in an effort to control the pet population and give them a chance at a better life. Margaret showered her extended family with limitless affection, support, and generosity. Though she never had children, many regarded her as a parental figure. She was always ready to offer advice, lend an ear, or lend a hand. Her quick wit and sharp sense of humor could lighten any room. Known for her tell-it-like-it-is honesty and a twinkle of mischief in her eye, Margaret had a knack for bringing smiles to faces even on the gloomiest days. Although she might have rolled her eyes at the thought of us sharing this, it's impossible to paint a complete picture of Margaret without acknowledging the feisty, rebellious spirit that made her so fun to be around. While her death leaves a void that will be felt by all who knew her, Margaret's legacy of love, compassion, and education will continue to inspire and guide us. We will remember her not just for the life she lived, but for the lives she touched, the minds she shaped, and the animals she saved. We feel immeasurably blessed for the time we had with her. Seven-year-old great-niece Jacqueline put it best during her final visit, "Thank you, Aunt Margaret. You made our family better." Margaret's ashes will be interred in a private ceremony on Saturday, October 6, 11 a.m. at the Catholic Diocese of Toledo's Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, we encourage donations to the Toledo Humane Society or another animal shelter of your choice.

Tributes

Margaret Ann Russ

June 22, 1943 - August 9, 2023