Margaret Colleen Standerfer

Peggy was born on January 30, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Michael and Mildred (Shaw) Russell. She was raised in St. Louis and graduated in 1961 from Rosati-Kain Academy, an all-girls Catholic high school that helped shape the faith, discipline, and quiet strength she carried throughout her life.

Immediately following high school, Peggy began her career as a civil servant with the United States Army. Her dedication, professionalism, and steadfast work ethic defined a career that spanned 40 years. Even after retiring, her expertise was so valued that she was called back to serve, continuing her work for an additional seven years.

While working for the Army, Peggy met the love of her life, Harland L. Standerfer. They were united in marriage on May 2, 1964, in Florissant, Missouri, and went on to share a life rooted in love, devotion, and unwavering partnership. Together, they celebrated 55 years of marriage before Harland preceded her in death in 2020.

Peggy was also preceded in death by three beloved children, one lost before birth, Alan, Lance, and Heather; her parents; two sisters, Sr. Rosemary Russell and Joan Chowning; and two brothers, Michael Russell and James Russell.

She is survived by her daughter, Christine Hogue, and husband Brian of Columbia, Missouri; her treasured grandson, Nicholas Hogue, and wife Karlee of Kansas City, Missouri, who shared an especially close and loving bond with Peggy and was truly the light of her life; her sister, Jeri VarVera of St. Charles, Missouri; two brothers, Thomas Russell and wife Kathy of St. Charles, Illinois, and Timothy Russell and wife Wy of South Carolina; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Peggy’s faith was strong, quiet, and deeply rooted. A devoted Catholic, she lived her faith through compassion, humility, and kindness rather than words. She possessed a generous heart, especially for animals, never turning away a stray in need. Peggy’s home was a place of welcome, comfort, and belonging for children over the years.

She was an avid reader and faithfully ended her day with the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, a simple routine that brought her joy and connection to the world around her. Above all else, Peggy’s greatest pride and joy was her family. Her love for them was boundless, and her devotion unwavering.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society in lieu of flowers.

The family would like to thank the staff at Lenoir Woods-Greenwood and Compassus Hospice for the care and support they provided.

Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at

St John Henry Newman Catholic Church, 602 Turner Ave

Columbia, MO 65201. There will be a luncheon to follow at the church.