Margaret "Peggy" Rich

Margaret “Peggy” Rich, of Duluth, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 surrounded by her family.

Peggy was born in Duluth on June 25, 1926 to Jasper and Margaret Barncard. She was the first woman to graduate with a dual degree in Physics and Chemistry from the University of Minnesota. She received an offer to attend Columbia University on a Fellowship. She was not able to attend, however, and later graduated with a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Minnesota, Duluth. She spent her educational career in a variety of teaching and administrative roles within the Duluth Public Schools. She particularly enjoyed working with students who had special needs. Her last position was working with the Teen-Parent Program where she developed strategies, particularly around math, that would prepare and empower young moms with the life skills they needed to go forward.

She married Joseph Rich on July 9, 1947 and raised 3 children. Together, they shared many memories at the family cabin on Rose Lake and through their extensive travels throughout the world.  Her love and support for Joe was steadfast during his 28-year battle with Parkinson’s prior to his death in 2012. 

Peggy was preceded in death by her husband, Joe, sister Joanne, her parents and two grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter, Sue (Steve) Slotness; twin sons, Jim F. (Joan) and John A. (Brenda); six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

 A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, March 14 at Lakeview Covenant Church at 11:00 a.m. with a visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. The service may be viewed online at Lakeviewcovenant.online.church