Margaret Shekleton

Margaret Mary Shekleton age 90 of New Hampton passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at her home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Holy Family Parish in New Hampton with Rev. James Goerend celebrating the Mass. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in New Hampton with Garrett Shekleton, Shane Shekleton, Brad Kamrath, Brigette Kamrath, Benjamin Ross, Ellie Ross serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearer will be Bryce Kamrath. Friends may greet the family from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 1, 2023 at Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton where there will be a 7:00 p.m. parish scripture service. Visitation continues an hour prior to the Mass on Saturday at the church. Margaret Mary Shekleton was born on January 4, 1933 on the family farm near Benson, Minnesota. She was the cherished daughter of John and Ethel (McQuaid) O'Connor, growing up as the middle child in a close-knit family of three siblings. Her early years were spent attending a country school on the family farm, instilling in her a deep connection to the land and a strong work ethic. Margaret's journey through education led her to Benson High School, where she distinguished herself not only academically but also through her active participation in sports, including softball and cattle showing alongside her beloved siblings. Her passion for learning continued at The College of St. Teresa in Winona, Minnesota, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts as a Medical Technician. Following her education, Margaret embarked on a new chapter in Colorado Springs, where she found purpose in a hospital job. Fate intervened at a wedding in Minnesota, where she met the love of her life, John "Jack" Shekleton. Their connection deepened through letters and courtship, culminating in a joyous union on October 6, 1962, at St. Brigid's Catholic Church in DeGraff, MN. Together, they built a life filled with love and devotion, blessed with the arrival of four children. Settling in New Hampton, Iowa, Margaret seamlessly merged her roles as a wife, mother, and a dedicated professional. Alongside her contributions to the family farm, she worked tirelessly at the New Hampton Clinic's lab, showcasing her commitment to the well-being of others. Her caring nature extended beyond her immediate family, as she selflessly cared for her mother-in-law and earned recognition as the State of Iowa's Volunteer of the Year in 1998 for her exemplary work as a tutor. Margaret's philanthropic spirit shone brightly through her involvement with the church and her presidency at the local food bank in New Hampton. Her dedication to community service touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on those she served. Margaret's nurturing spirit was a beacon in her family's life, always prioritizing their needs and ensuring her grandchildren felt her unwavering support in their various endeavors. A lifelong member of the Catholic Daughters of America, Margaret took immense pride in her Irish heritage, embracing it with joy and enthusiasm. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and a commitment to family values that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Margaret is survived by two daughters, Mary Beth (Kevin) Kamrath-Ovel of New Hampton, Patrice (Brian) Ross of Vienna, VA; two sons, Greg (Sheila) Shekleton of New Hampton, John (Janice) Shekleton of New Hampton; six grandchildren, Brad (Lainey) Kamrath of Bozeman, MT, Garrett (Kiley) Shekleton of North Liberty, IA, Shane (LeAnn) Shekleton of New Hampton, Brigette Kamrath of Pierre, SD, Ellie Ross of Durango, CO, Benjamin Ross of Vienna, VA; two great-granddaughters, Shyann Shekleton and Charlie Shekleton with one more on the way; one brother, Pat (Joanne) O'Connor of Cedar Rapids; brother-in-law, Dick Hawkins of St. Paul, MN. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Jack in 2008, one grandson, Bryce Kamrath in 2010; one brother, Jim (Betty) O'Connor; one sister, Mary Ann Hawkins.