Margaret "Marge" Braun, 73, of Washington passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. While we weren't quite ready to let her go, we take comfort in knowing she's now reunited with loved ones-and is likely already making sure heaven is properly decorated for the next holiday.

Born in Harvey, IL, to the late John and Margaret "Pearl" (Moeller) Todd, Marge was a force of nature wrapped in kindness, humor, and just the right amount of stubbornness. She was preceded in death by her sister, Kathleen "Kathy" Schroth; brother, John Todd; niece, Karen Schroth; and nephew, Kevin Schroth. She is survived by her three children, Robert "Bobby" (Sandy Aschenbrenner) Braun, Thomas (Tricia) Braun, and Julie Braun Fuller, who will forever hear her voice reminding them to drive safe, eat something, and call more often. Her beloved grandchildren, Samantha "Sammy" Braun, Lexi Braun, Melody Fuller, and Zekiel "Zeke" Fuller. Also left to carry on her traditions are her nephew, Ken (Norina) Schroth; great-nephews, Michael and Alex Schroth; and great-niece, Jessica Schroth.

Marge worked hard her whole life and instilled that work ethic in her children.  She served as a 911 dispatcher, managing local grocery stores (including Nyman's), and finishing her career in human resources at Caterpillar Inc., where she retired in 2016 after 17 years.

Her greatest joys were simple but meaningful: spending time with family, catching up with friends over lunch, watching Hallmark movies (even though she could predict the ending five minutes in), admiring all kinds of flowers - especially roses, shopping for the best deals, and decorating for every holiday as if it were a competitive sport. Christmas was her personal Olympics, and she made sure everyone felt the magic of the season. She made sure to keep in touch with loved ones near and far, proving that family isn't just who you're born with-it's who you hold onto.

Marge's favorite topic of conversation was her grandchildren, whether anyone asked about them or not. A permanent fixture at all of their games, concerts, and plays, she was their biggest cheerleader. Whether it was having apples peeled and sliced in baggies ready for them or keeping up with what their current favorite treats were, they could always count on having more than any four people could possibly eat at one time. She took her role as Grandmother very seriously and was always sure to spoil them for every holiday: Easter eggs filled with quarters, filling the coffee table up with presents and sweets, and buying the latest and greatest toys.

She may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts-her love, laughter, generosity and deep appreciation for the little joys in life will stay with us always.

Per her wishes, cremation has been accorded. A Memorial Service will be held at Noon on Saturday, February 22nd, at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service, from 10 a.m. to Noon, at the funeral home.

Flowers can be sent to Deiters Funeral Home or donations in honor of Margaret Braun may be made to Richard L. Owens Hospice Home.