Published on January 17, 2025 7:57 am
Last Updated on January 17, 2025 7:58 am
Margaret Irene Niebrugge, 90, of Effingham, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Brookstone Estates in Effingham, IL surrounded by her five children.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Effingham, IL. Burial will be alongside her husband in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Green Creek. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham, IL.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to the St. Anthony Church choirs, Newman Catholic Centers (in care of the Niebrugge family), St. Anthony Schools and/or Educational Trust. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.
Margaret was born March 26, 1934, the daughter of Lawrence and Irene Kalina. She attended Robinson High School, St. Mary of the Woods College, Colorado College, and the University of Illinois. She married Alphonse H. Niebrugge on June 27, 1959, and he preceded her in death on September 10, 2000.
Margaret is survived by her five children: Deborah Niebrugge Reimers (Richard) of Maryville TN; Gregory A. Niebrugge (Christine) of Effingham; Christopher L. Niebrugge (Cindy) of Effingham; Rebecca M. Croft (Dean) of Edwardsville, IL; and Kathryn M. Clausius (Jeff) of Effingham. Margaret beamed with pride and spoke frequently of her grandchildren: Dr. Scott Mahon, Dr. Steven Mahon, Stacia Chaplin: Deborah; Alexis Buehnerkemper, Dustin Hall: Gregory; Chad Niebrugge, Sean Niebrugge: Christopher; Douglass Croft, Maddison Croft, Korrine Croft: Rebecca; Will Clausius, Olivia Clausius, and Sophia Clausius: Kathryn. Margaret also cherished her 9 great-grandchildren, always loving the babies, and treasuringevery smile.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister, Jean Kalina, grandson, Sean, and step-grandson, Dustin.
Margaret spent a lifetime serving others. She was a teacher for many years at St. Anthony Grade School, Edgewood Elementary, and Teutopolis Unit 50. She was most known for her talent as a music instructor, frequently directing school plays and performances. Margaret also dedicated her life serving the Lord as the pianist, organist, and choir organist for 55+ years at St. Anthony Catholic Church. She touched the lives of countless students, parish members, friends, and relatives through her musical talent and as a result, was inducted into the St. Anthony Hall of Fame for her many years of service and dedication.
Margaret cherished the last few years of her life at Brookstone Estates, making many new friends and establishing great relationships with the staff. Her patio flower garden was her pride and joy. A special thanks to our God sent angels, Becky Kull, Simon, and family for their dedication and countless hours of care and prayer.