Margaret Mary Zitt

As Linda Ellis wrote in her poem "The Dash," what matters most is the dash between those years; for that dash represents the time spent on earth, and those who love them know what that line is worth.

In her dash, Margie was a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a friend, a teacher, and a mentor. She was the one who always remembered, who listened, who showed up, who taught, and who cared for everyone around her. She loved the color blue, quilting, fabric (so much fabric), lotto tickets, making lists, Buc-ee's, chocolate chips, and keeping memories and keepsakes.

It's no surprise she chose teaching as her profession. She loved children and had a gift for making them feel seen, heard, and understood. She spent her career at St. Michael's, teaching kids, and then their kids, and then their kids' kids; touching more lives than we'll ever fully know.

But her impact didn't stop there. To her "bestest" nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, she was Auntie "M." Even when she couldn't see them, she talked about them constantly, sharing their stories with anyone who'd listen.

She grew up and spent most of her life in Naperville, Illinois but a year ago she took a leap and moved to be closer to her sisters in Arizona. It was an amazing year: warm (sometimes too warm) weather, road trips, mountains, museums, festivals, farmers markets, Zoo Lights, holiday parties, patio lunches, and so much more.

We all wish we had one more call, one more visit, one more text. But we're lucky to have been part of her dash, and luckier still for the memories we hold of her. Thank you, Margie, for letting us share your journey. You will be missed.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be not be a traditional funeral. A celebration of her life will be held later this year, with details to follow.