Margaret (Scott) Stuehmer

Millet

1912-2003

Description

Life and Work

Jeannie Margaret was born on July 30, 1912 in Kinsella, Alberta. She was the youngest of three daughters born to John and Jeannie Scott, who were both from Edinburgh, Scotland. Jeannie Margaret was the only child born outside of Scotland on both sides of the family. Although she was named after her mother, she preferred to be called Margaret.

Margaret attended the Camrose Normal School for only one year to obtain her teaching certificate. After teaching at a few one-room schools, she accepted a job west of Millet at Porto Bello School in 1938, where she met her husband, John Stuehmer. John and Margaret were married on July 10, 1939.

John and Margaret had three children; Ronald, James, and Janet. The Stuehmer farm was a gathering place for family and friends, as John and Margaret were very social and hosted many parties. Margaret was an excellent cook and her meals were famous amongst family and friends.

After returning to teaching within the Millet area in 1953, Margaret dedicated 25 years of her life to the profession. During her retirement, Margaret became an avid volunteer for a variety of organizations, including the local Food Bank, Devonian Gardens, and Leduc Friends of the Library, which highlighted the versatility of her skills.

John and Margaret were married for 53 years until Margaret was widowed in 1992. They had 5 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Margaret was a vibrant and active woman throughout her life. She considered herself a “lifelong learner” and encouraged those around to do the same. She continued to take university courses and engage in other learning activities right up until the time of her death in 2003. Her passions included flowers, art, music, Canadian history, and poetry.

Margaret Stuehmer was an amazing pioneer woman. She spent her life inspiring others by being an incredible wife, teacher, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, and volunteer. She was a true Albertan and a proud Canadian woman.


Associated Member Museum: Millet and District Museum and Archives