Margaret Longnecker, 107, was called on September 18, 2024, in the presence of her family. She was born on November 10, 1916, in Reasnor, Iowa, to William and Laura (Perry) McBride. A child of the war years, and later, the Great Depression, she went on to graduate from Newton (Iowa) High School, where she met her future husband, John Elliot Longnecker.

They were married on July 2, 1938, in Lancaster, Missouri and settled in Davenport, Iowa where John managed bowling alleys. Son, William Hugh, was born in 1943, just prior to John's deployment to England with the 8th Air Force.

Following World War II, the young family moved to San Juan, Texas where John was employed as the City Clerk. Daughter Kathryn was born in 1947, followed by son John in 1950. The Texas years, although somewhat hardscrabble, were fondly remembered by Margaret.

In the early 1950's, the family pulled up stakes and moved to Colorado; first Denver, where John was employed as a clerk by Luby Chevrolet, and later onto Fort Morgan, where he was employed by the city, eventually becoming the City Clerk. Throughout, Margaret tended the home fires as the typical homemaker of the 1950's; always there at home to tend to the family needs.

As her children grew, she allowed herself employment, both at the Fort Morgan Library, and The Style Shop on Main Street. She was much respected and well-remembered at both locations.

In retirement, John and Margaret returned to south Texas numerous times to visit South Padre Island. They also acquired a camper which they used on many occasions to visit the Poudre River. They especially enjoyed the area around Kinnikinnick, and later Ranger Lakes. Many happy days were spent in this area enjoying the fishing, the surroundings, and the family. The campfires are especially remembered.

Margaret is preceded in death by her parents; three brothers; a sister; and her husband. She is survived by her son, William, of Canyon, Texas; daughter, Kathy Christensen (Ray) of Fort Collins; son, John (Nancy) of Thornton; three grandchildren, Eric Christensen of Oakland, California, Scott Christensen of Greeley, and Laura (Zach) Smathers of Raleigh, North Carolina; and two great-grandchildren, Keira and Callie Smathers.

Her final years were spent at Harmony Home in Fort Morgan. The family wishes to thank all the staff at Harmony for their caring and compassion, especially during her final days.

A private committal service will be held at Serenity Falls Columbarium at a future date.