Peggy (Munn) Guriel

With a ready smile and a heart that knew no bounds, Peggy Ann (Munn) Guriel lived a life rich in family and friends. A devoted wife, mother, sister and friend, Peggy’s family was her greatest joy. Peggy was selfless, fun, positive, faithful and accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior. She met each day with gratitude and a deep desire to be of service to others. In as much as she gave, Peggy was loved abundantly and cherished in the hearts of many. While she will be sadly missed, her beautiful legacy will continue to live on in the lives of all who knew her. It seems fitting that a woman of such enthusiasm for life was born in the middle of one of the most highly charged decades in US history. While the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement resulted in volatile protests, the inventions of the Super Ball and Skateboard reminded us of the importance of play. Women’s skirts grew shorter while men’s hair grew longer, and The Beatles’ “Help” album dominated the airways. With much hope for the future, Burton and Beverly (Dooley) Munn welcomed their daughter Peggy into their hearts and home on April 27, 1965, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Peggy enjoyed a childhood centered on family values. Her older brother, Bruce, and sister, Terry proved wonderful companions and became lifelong friends. Her relationship with her sister Terry was a very special bond. While Peggy was quite shy as a child, she enjoyed spending time with her friends, and the attention that came with being the youngest child. Weekends were spent camping and exploring the outdoors. After graduating from Loy Norrix High School with the class of 1983, Peggy attended Kalamazoo Valley Community College. In time, Peggy was blessed to welcome two sons into her life. Tyler and Cody were the centers of her world, and she was a wonderful mom. Loving, generous, and kind, she supported her boys in all of their endeavors. Truly her heart’s delight, Peggy was extremely proud of her sons. A girly-girl by nature, Peggy always made sure she looked her best. Her clothing, jewelry, makeup, and hair were always just right. Consistently good-natured, she met each person as a friend, with natural goodwill and an eagerness to do whatever she could to lighten the load they may be carrying. With signature generosity, and Peggy provided home daycare for her family and friends. While working at Walgreen’s, Peggy had the good fortune of meeting Tom. The pair began dating and soon set their eyes on a future spent with one another. On November 14, 2005, she and Tom married, officially beginning their 14-year adventure. Over their years together, Peggy and Tom shared a companionship that proved a mutual gift. Whether tending to the day’s responsibilities or taking a grand adventure, she valued their time together. Peggy especially enjoyed the many trips they took. She loved to travel anywhere warm and sunny, for it was not a vacation if there was snow. Going on tropical trips with Tom, Terry and David; together as a group enjoying their special time together were her favorites. Tom was always looking for ways to make trips special for her. Some trips even included bringing family members as a surprise. A woman who knew what was most important, Peggy loved the simple things in life. Though she was willing to cook and was known for her taco dip and tater tot casserole, she liked to go out to eat as often as she could. She enjoyed the loyal companionship of her dogs. Kasey proved a wonderful companion years ago, and her yellow lab, Carly, was her most recent pal. With great wisdom, Peggy was easily contented by time with loved ones. While our days with Peggy were far too few, and the world is significantly duller in the absence of her brilliant light, may we find comfort in the many ways Peggy gifted our lives. May we find additional comfort in knowing that we celebrate her loving legacy with each warm hello, moment we give of our time and talents, well-coordinated outfit we don. In these ways, we keep her beautiful spirit shining and inspiring others as she so inspired us. Peggy A. Guriel, of Portage, passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2019, at the age of 54. Peggy is survived by her husband of 14 years, Tom; two sons: Tyler Fitzpatrick, of Portage and Cody Fitzpatrick, of Kalamazoo; sister: Terry (David) Swanson, of Kalamazoo; mother-in-law: Helen Guriel, of IN. She is also survived by her brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws: Connie (Phil) Scamihorn, of Marshall; Mike (Mary) Guriel, of AZ; Theresa (Frank) Knapp, of IN; Greg Guriel, of IN; Stephen (Jennifer) Guriel, of IN; nieces and nephews: Eric (Michelle) Swanson, of Martin; Alexis (Evan) Goad, of South Bend; Anna (CJ) Six, of Lansing; Bryce Munn, of Kalamazoo; Elizabeth (Chase) Brummett, of IN; great-nieces and nephews: Elias, Blakely, Jay, Carter, Maddie, Michael and Mia. She is preceded in death by her parents, Burton and Beverly Munn, and brother, Bruce Munn. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 2 to 4pm at the Avink Funeral Home & Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage (269-344-5600). A memorial service will be held on Monday at 11 am at the funeral home, with a private burial of her ashes at Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park. Please visit Peggy’s webpage at www.avinkcremation.com where you can read her life story, share a memory and photos. Those who wish may make contributions to the Big Give at Radiant Church and/or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.