Feb. 15, 1910 -- Jan. 6, 2005

Margaret Michiels, 94, of Mishawaka, passed away Thursday morning, January 6, 2005, in Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka.

Margaret was born on Feb. 15, 1910, in Kluzen, Belgium, a daughter of Charles and Marie (VanDeVeire) VanHolsbeke. As a child, she came with her family to the United States. On October 23, 1926, in St. Bavo Catholic Church, Mishawaka, she married Gustave Michiels, and they made their home in Mishawaka.

Margaret was employed for many years in research and development with Ball Band/Uniroyal and retired in 1970. She was a member of St. Bavo Church. Margaret started the BK Club Auxiliary and served as its first president. She was past president and longtime board member of the Mishawaka Federal Credit Union. Margaret was also a member of the 65 Retirees Club and Real Services of Mishawaka. She enjoyed upholstery work and playing cards at Howard Park and the Battell Center.

Margaret's surviving family includes her son, Maurice Michiels and his wife, Marcie of Mishawaka; two grandsons, Marc of South Bend and Martin of Alaska; nieces and nephews, Marie Vernasco, Charles Williams, Nancy DeWulf, Andrew Wauters, Lana Lotter and Cecilia Metzner; a special cousin, Madelon Frick; and she also leaves behind her beloved dog and constant companion, "Scruffie".

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gustave; a daughter, Aline Dixon; two granddaughters, Carol Ann Dixon and Mary Michiels; and by her sister, Henrietta Williams.

Friends may spend time with Margaret's family on Monday from 3 to 7 p.m. in Thallemer, Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 West Third Street, Mishawaka. A memorial service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday at 11 a.m. Entombment will be at a later date at Fairview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Pet Refuge of Mishawaka, or the charity of one's choice. Envelopes are available in the funeral home.