Margaret Ann (Widholm) O'Donnell

It is with deep sadness, that we announce the passing of Margaret Ann (Widholm) O’Donnell on February 26th. She was 78 years old. Margaret was born in Lexington, NE to Reuben Widholm and Hilga Jensen Widholm on October 29, 1945. She was raised by her Uncle Holgie, and her Aunt Esther Jensen for the first year of her life after the untimely loss of her mother. Margaret married twice in her life. She lived in (and around) Cozad, NE, Cheyenne, WY, and Boulder, CO giving her the opportunity for a variety of adventures with great friends and family throughout her life.

Margaret's journey was filled with many experiences and accomplishments. She was a graduate of Cheyenne East High School, where she excelled both academically and as a member of the Pom Pom team. Throughout her career, Margaret held various positions at Mountain Bell, The Hitching Post, American National Bank, Moreland Wholesale, Ball Aerospace, and Weatherwax & Associates.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Margaret's true passion lay in her hobbies and interests. She was an avid golfer and found joy in her sewing circles, Bunco nights, and being an active member of the Cheyenne Women’s Civic League in the early years. It was in her creative pursuits that Margaret truly shone brightly. She was a master crafter who could tole paint, knit, sew, quilt, cross-stitch, bead, and refinish furniture with finesse. Each corner of her home bore testimony to her creative genius. Adorned with the fruits of her labor that she generously shared with those around her.

She was also known for her culinary skills. Her Christmas fondue dinners, Easter brunches, and Valentine's Day treats were legendary. They were eagerly anticipated by all who had the pleasure of experiencing them. Her dogs would tell you that her homemade dog biscuits were the best, and her Grand-dogs would probably agree.  Her home was always open to friends and family, where she would generously share her creations (and offer a listening ear) over a cup of coffee while admiring her flowers on her back deck.  Her patios were always blooming and beautiful.

She is survived by her daughters Sonia DeCarlo (Mike), Kim Brokaw (Richard), and Stacie Linger (Mark). Her grandchildren Lauren Stallings (Tommy), Matthew Goldhammer (Teddy), Seth DeCarlo, Mason Linger, Bridger Brokaw, Coulter Brokaw, Chase Linger; great-grandchildren Ryden, Kennedi, and Gracen. In addition to her human family members, Margaret had a special place in her heart for dogs. She opened up her home to numerous schnauzers, Rhodesian ridgebacks, and chihuahuas over the years, offering them a shelter filled with warmth and affection.

Special mention must be made of Margaret's close friend Marcia Vanlandingham who helped Margaret, her family, and her dogs while she navigated her health in the last few years.   

A graveside service will be held at a later date to celebrate her life and honor her legacy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Black Dog Animal Rescue in her name.   Please feel free to share any photos you may have in the comments as the family would love to see them!