Margaret F. Hendel

Margaret F. Hendel (Peggy) of Deer Park, passed away on Wednesday, July 25 at the age of 85. Beloved wife of Jerome P. Hendel for 58 wonderful and loving years. Devoted mother to Gerard, Barbara Hendel-Coyne (Lenny), Richard (Olga), Patricia, Robert (Michele), and Kathleen. Loving grandmother of Brian, Briana, Ricky, Matthew, Stephan, Ava, Noah, Lauriana and step-grandchildren, Brittany and Brandon. Beloved sister of Frances Barone (Stephen), George West (Rose), and Paul West (Kathy).

Peggy has left this world but will never be forgotten. Peggy was born in New York City, New York in 1932 and was the daughter of the late George and Bertha West, and grew up in Rosedale, New York. She graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in 1950. In 1954, Peggy married Jack Nelson who predeceased her in 1957. She met her husband Jerome through the bank manager at Ridgewood Savings Bank in Laurelton, New York. In 1960, she married Jerome at the Notre Dame University Basilica in South Bend, Indiana. Peggy was a devoted Catholic and parishioner at Saints Cyril and Methodius Church. She had a special love and devotion to our Blessed Mother.

Peggy, you are and always will be the saint, rock, soul, and “ham” of the family. You are the star of many Hendel home movie productions. Peggy always lit up the room and brought a smile to everyone’s face. She selflessly raised 6 kids and always seemed to find a way to give each one the time and attention each needed. Even though she had a big family, there was always room for one more mouth to feed at the Hendel table. Besides spending time with her family, one of Peggy’s favorite pastimes was traveling to Atlantic City with family and friends, looking for that next Jackpot which Lady Luck showered upon her more than once. She never had a complaint in her life, not even when she battled with her illness at the end of her life. She fought like a trooper to the end, but alas she was tired and needed to rest.

Peggy you left us all with beautiful memories; your love will still be our guide. Although we cannot see you, you’re always in our hearts. You earned your wings and will always be our hero and Guardian Angel. When you left us, you didn’t go alone; you took a big piece of our hearts with you, the day God took you home