Margie E. Sherwin, 76, of Lancaster WI, flew high on her witch's broom September 12, 2024.

Impossible to capture a full life in a few words. She was a favorite teacher, a rebellious nun, a cherished nanny, a tireless volunteer, and the best wife, mom, and grandma.

Born Halloween night 1947 and raised on the family farm in Epworth (Placid), IA, the fifth of seven kids born to Michael and Edna Urbain, Margie had an idyllic childhood. After graduating from St. Joseph High School in 1965, Margie joined Sisters of the Presentation in Dubuque, with whom she lived for six years as Sister Ann Michelle aka SAM. As a nun, Margie earned a bachelor's degree, taught herself to play guitar, and began a 25-year career teaching grade school.

At 26, Margie left the Order and moved to Lancaster, WI to teach at St. Clement School where she was renowned for birthday root beer floats, month-long celebration of Halloween, leading the music at church, and her playful Irish humor. She met Joe Sherwin in November 1976; they dated only three weeks before announcing their engagement and married six months later, on June 11,1977. Together Margie and Joe created a beautiful life; they raised their daughters, took road trips, spent quality time with family and friends, enjoyed dining out, and cherished each other through it all.

"Marge in charge" volunteered more than anyone we know. Jaycettes, Hospital Auxiliary, United Way, Red Cross, City Council, Meals on Wheels, Crime Stoppers, Red Hatters, Historical Society, Old Home Enthusiasts, and the Thrift Shop all benefited from her time and energy across the last five decades. She was the proud recipient of the Lancaster Award in 2001, in recognition of her years of positive contributions to the City of Lancaster. She lived by example and Margie's pride in her Irish heritage and dedication to chronicling family genealogy is a gift for future generations.

Survived by husband of 47 years, Joe; daughters Cathy (Andrea) Sherwin of Lakeville, MN, and Nichole (Matt) Madsen of Des Moines, IA; grandchildren Tommy and Nora Sherwin; siblings Thelma Loes, Lou Ann Mentzer, Al Urbain, and Fred (Phyllis) Urbain; sisters-in-law Diane Morgan and Carol Sherwin; many nieces and nephews, and hundreds more whose lives she touched as a teacher, volunteer, and friend. Predeceased by her parents; a brother Joe Urbain; and a sister, Lois Ludwig; nephews Kevin Benda, Bret Loes, Stephen Benda, and Keith Urbain; and brothers-in-law, Ed Benda, Jim Sherwin, Gene Loes, Jim Mentzer, Bob Ludwig, and Dennis Morgan.

Memorial Fund established which the family will distribute to causes dear to Margie. Margie's favorite word was "reciprocate", which means to give back. She gave us so much, and in paying it forward, we honor her memory.

A Visitation for Margie will be held from 3 to 7 p.m.  on Monday, September 16, 2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home, at 894 Peosta Street, Peosta, Iowa, 52068.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for Margie will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Placid, Iowa with Rev. David Ambrosy presiding.  Burial will follow in St. John the Evangelist Cemetery in Placid, Iowa.