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Margaret Gersch: May 23, 1925 – July 3, 2019

Margaret Mary Bielenberg Splonski Gersch passed on July 3, 2019. She was born on May 23, 1925 to Matt and Kate Bielenberg in Receda, California. At the age of six, she and her family made the long trek to a newly purchased farm in the foothills above Scotts Mills. She attended Noble Elementary and Mt. Angel Academy.

She married John Splonski in 1946 living in a cabin in the hills before moving to Scotts Mills where she raised four children and resided until her death.

Margaret’s deep faith, family and community were her priorities in life. She attended Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Crooked Finger where she was charter member of the Altar Society and secretary of the Parish Council. She worked 43 years at Scotts Mills School as clerk/secretary. She was a lifetime member of the Catholic Daughters, a member of the Grange, Women’s Fireman’s Auxiliary, City Council budget committee, Marion County Extension, and the quilters guild.

Margaret was the heart and soul of the Scotts Mills community. She was a moral pillar of strength, wisdom, faith and integrity – a remarkable inspiration widely respected by all. This profound loss has shaken all having the privilege of knowing her and her memory will never be forgotten.

Survivors include daughter Patty (Jeff) of Silverton, son Clarence (Emily) of Scotts Mills, daughter Katie (Larry) of Scotts Mills, daughter-in-law Janet Splonski of Mount Angel, 12 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband John Splonski, second husband Ambrose Gersch, siblings Joe, Tony, Fritz, and Agnes Bielenberg, and son Ralph Splonski.

A rosary was held on July 8 and funeral mass on July 9 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Scotts Mills. Contributions may be made to Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery.

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