Margaret J. Wentworth passed away peacefully in Manteca March 21,2010 and went to join the Lord with her loving family at her side. Margaret was born October 15,1919, lived 90 wonderful years. Margaret was a long-time resident of Gilroy and lived the last four years in Manteca to be near her family. She was the beloved wife of the late Everett Wentworth for 69 years. Loving mother of Rick and daughter-in-law Judy Wentworth, Pamela and son-in-law Ambrose Manikowski, and John Wentworth who died in Viet Nam. Adored grandmother of Kevin (Diane) Wentworth, Kristen (Mark) Condit, Mia Costa, and August (Melanie) Costa. Affectionately known as GG, dear great-grandmother to Makenna, Karson, Tyler, Giovanni, and Grant. Nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends also survive her.
Margaret (Rasmussen) lived in San Martin and attended elementary school there and graduated from Live Oak High School in 1937. She met Everett when she was 15. She graduated from high school and went on to Healds Business College in Oakland. Upon her graduation they married in 1940. She and Everett were an active part of Gilroy history. Margaret worked at Gilroy High School as a secretary for 30 years and every student knew Mrs. Wentworth.
Margaret celebrated life with enthusiasm and a smile enjoying a tireless passion for gardening and sewing. She was a gifted gardener and her yard always was abloom no matter what the season. She was a creative seamstress always looking for the newest style and fashion. Upon her retirement, she took that skill and joined the hospital sewing group making caps and blankets for the new babies. Her one vice was taking an occasional trip to play the slot machines. She was seldom a winner but enjoyed the trip just the same. A month ago she hit a royal flush and received her first and only 1099. This was a thrill for her and her only regret was Everett wasn’t here to see her count out her winnings.
Most importantly, her family and friends dearly loved Margaret for her singular and unconditional devotion to helping others and always putting others needs before her own. Margaret was a great storyteller and she lit up wherever she was and whomever she talked too.
Margaret was an active member of the Gilroy United Methodist Church, The Order of Eastern Star Magnolia Chapter, Gold Star Mothers San Jose Chapter and the hospital sewing auxiliary.
She will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
A memorial celebration of life service will be held at the Gilroy United Methodist Church on Saturday April 24, 2010, at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Shriners Hospital 2425 Stockton Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95817 or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made at www.habingfamilyfuneralhome.com.
