Margaret McCauley

Margaret Helen Lee McCauley passed away peacefully in her home with family at her side on May 22, 2024. 

Margaret was born on May 10, 1928, in La Crosse, WI, to Delbert and Catherine Lee. On Jan 8, 1948, she married Maurice John McCauley. She was a loving and caring woman, beloved by her family and friends. Maragret lived a purpose-driven life marked by a generous spirit and a kind heart. Throughout her life, Margaret opened her heart and home to numerous family members and friends. Margaret was proud of her Irish and Norwegian heritage. She often referred to herself as an "Irish Viking." 

Margaret is survived by her daughters, Janet, Debra, Colleen, Diane, and Laura McCauley; nine grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and numerous Godchildren. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Maurice (Mac) McCauley, her son, John McCauley, her infant daughter, Catherine McCauley, and her grandson Paul McCauley.

Margaret attended St. Peter Elementary School and St. Peter High School in Hokah, MN. She furthered her education by graduating from La Crosse Beauty School in 1947 and opened her own beauty shop. Later, after raising her children, she earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Winona State University.    

Margaret served the community in a variety of ways. She cooked for the Christian Brothers, performed as a guide at the Bunnell House, taught English to Bosnian refugees, and volunteered at Birthright. Margaret also worked as a caregiver at St. Anne's Hospice and the Lamberton House.

Margaret enjoyed playing the piano, teaching her family to play, and reading historical accounts. Her interest in history extended to passing down many family stories to her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed her time working as a clerk at Spurgeon's Department Store in downtown Winona. Margaret was an active member of the Civil War round table, and the Winona Historical Society. Margaret worshipped at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona and had a strong devotion to Mary.

Visitation will be held from 10 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona. Margaret will be laid to rest at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Hokah, MN. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka, St. Peter's Church in Hokah, MN, or Birthright. Margaret's legacy of love and kindness will forever be remembered by those whose lives she touched.

Margaret's family wishes to acknowledge Winona Health and Winona Hospice for their extraordinary and loving care of our mother and grandmother.