Margaret “Peggy” Josephine Haines
June 19, 1938 – September 19, 2025
With deep love and fond remembrance, we announce the passing of Margaret “Peggy” Josephine Haines on Friday, September 19, 2025, in Kitchener, Ontario.
Born on June 19, 1938, in Oak Park, Illinois, Peggy was the beloved daughter of Donald Graydon Haines and Josephine Eleanor Mollek (Haines). She grew up with a lively spirit and an endless curiosity about the world. In the 1960s, she made the courageous decision to move to Canada, a country she would proudly call home for the rest of her life. Early in her career, she worked at the University of Waterloo, where she met her dear friend Brenda, with whom she shared a lifelong and cherished friendship filled with laughter, support, and adventure.
Peggy was a woman of remarkable energy and charisma—unique, passionate, and driven by a deep yearning for continuous learning and education. She had a magnetic personality that drew people of all ages to her, making lasting connections wherever she went.
She is survived by her loving sister Suzanne, who resides in Pennsylvania, by her two cherished nieces, and extended family in Toronto. She is predeceased by her beloved parents, her lifelong love Giovanni (John), and her dear friend Brenda, who passed away last year.
Throughout her professional life, Peggy’s warmth, grace, and elegance shone brightly. She worked in furniture and jewelry sales, owned her own business, and was best known for her many years as a Beauty Advisor for Clinique and Estée Lauder, representing her brands with pride at The Bay, Sears, and Holt Renfrew. Many in the community fondly remember her confident and friendly voice over the store announcements, earning her the affectionate nickname “The Voice of The Bay” in Kitchener-Waterloo.
Peggy was passionate about culture, travel, and the art of living well. She spoke Italian fluently and loved spending vacations in Italy, immersing herself in its art, food, and history. A gifted home cook, Peggy found great joy in preparing delicious meals and sharing them with friends and loved ones—her kitchen always filled with laughter, warmth, and wonderful aromas. She was equally fascinated by Egypt, and her deep appreciation for its history reflected her love of discovery. Museums and art galleries were among her favourite places—especially the Royal Ontario Museum, where she delighted in spending hours with the dinosaurs and exhibits that fueled her imagination.
In her later years, Peggy faced health challenges with courage, determination, and an unwavering sense of humour. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Paramed Home Care team, several of whom became dear friends, and to the palliative care team at WRHN @ Chicopee for their exceptional compassion and care.
Peggy also shared a cherished friendship with Shawn Hlowatzki, whom she met while working at Hudson’s Bay. Their connection grew into a remarkable bond, and Shawn remained a constant source of support, especially after the passing of Peggy’s husband. In her final years, Shawn provided steady care, comfort, and companionship, and was by her side when she passed.
Peggy has been cremated, and a private burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre, where Peggy found comfort, connection, and support during her health journey. Donations can be made at:
www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/hopespring-cancer-support-centre
Peggy will be remembered for her elegance, humour, fashion sense, and boundless warmth. Her laughter, generosity, and grace will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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