1923 – 2016

BIDDEFORD — Margaret “Peg” Stackpole Wallingford, 92, of Auburn passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 10.

She was born Sept. 4, 1923, a daughter of the late Miner and Ruth (Batchelder) Stackpole. She grew up on 143 Cony St., Augusta, and graduated from Cony High School. She attended the University of Maine, where she met her future husband, Otto Wallingford, in chemistry class. She transferred to the University of Pennsylvania and graduated with an occupational therapy degree in 1945.

She began her career at The Hyde Home, working with disabled children. She married Otto Wallingford in 1948. They lived in Auburn on Perkins Ridge and Taylor Pond, while raising their five children. Peg loved being a mom and imparted to them her strong ethics of compassion to all and her love of music, literature, dogs, nature and sports. Peg also worked at the Madison Street School and Pathways over the years, following her passion to help those with disabilities.

Peg had a keen awareness and love of the outdoors. She loved to spend time outside, whether playing tennis, cross country skiing, watching birds, or spending time with all the golden retriever and Newfoundland dogs over the years, and the golden puppies she raised. Her positive attitude was pervasive and contagious, even about a gloomy weather day, often commenting that the “sky was just about to clear.” She always had music playing in the house, from classical to musicals, and she played the cello and the piano.

Peg was an active volunteer in many organizations, including being a Girl Scout leader and volunteering for the Auburn Public Library. She traveled with her husband, Otto, including multiple RV trips to Alaska.

She is survived by her daughter, Ruthie; son, Phil and his wife, Kathy Barnes; daughter, Susan; daughter, Judy; daughter, Helen and her husband, Mike; and grandchildren, Jim, Anna, William, Laura, Lindsey, Zachary and Betty.

She is predeceased by her brother, Miner Stackpole; and twin brother Phil Stackpole; and her husband, Otto Wallingford.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.