Margaret "Meg" Walton

Generous, kind, and beautiful, Margaret “Meg” Ruggles Walton lived a grateful life. Meg, 88, died peacefully and left us on the wings of angels October 2, 2020. She was born, July 3, 1932. The youngest daughter of Beryl and Tena Ruggles, she finished high school in Elk Rapids, Michigan. Her engaging personality and poise resulted in her selection as both Miss Merry Christmas and Miss Elk Rapids, 1950. Because of limited finances, with regret, her nursing studies at Sparrow Hospital ended prematurely. In 1955, Meg married Lee Wyatt and moved to Suttons Bay. They shared three children. In 1966, she married Leslie Walton, gaining four more grown children. Meg was deeply devoted to Les and an active partner in multiple business endeavors across northern Michigan. Meg served others in many ways, including 30 years as a hospice volunteer. She was a fervent investor in relationships. Her friendships in Traverse City and 28 years as a part-time resident in Oldsmar, Florida were highly valued. The Women’s Circle at Traverse Bay (Asbury) United Methodist Church was an enduring source of precious solace and connection. Meg read, sewed, played golf, offered hospitality, and championed her children. Mostly, she cared about others. The volumes of notes written over many decades are witness to her encouraging words and heartfelt commitments. She had a significant interest in the needs of the vulnerable and poor. Her recent years were enjoyed on Creekside Drive and Glen Eagle where she was respected for her compassion. Meg was preceded in death by all her siblings: Mary, Glenn, Charles and Eugene Ruggles. She is celebrated by her three children: Lee (Julie) Wyatt, Interlochen, Lisa Wyatt Knowlton (Tim), Suttons Bay,and Paul (Linda) Wyatt, Lake Forest, IL. Beloved grandchildren include: Andrew (Kinsey), Matthew, and Lauren Wyatt, Kameron Knowlton, Jessica (Bret) DeLaune and Taylor Margaret Wyatt Knowlton. She is also survived by three Walton stepchildren: Brent (Norma), Bill (Jeanne), Darlynn (Ron) Eagle. Ron (Carol) Walton is deceased. Many Walton grandchildren and great grands knew a wonderful Grandma. Meg’s mother was an immigrant to the US in the 1920s. A source of great joy to Meg was her Nova Scotian (Canada) relatives. Meg delighted in flowers, water, trees, homemade fruit pie and many people. She was a devout Christian and her life was a distinct example of love in action. The family appreciates the care of Dr. Lara Madigan, Rebecca, Meghan, Stacy, Barb, Melissa, Tracy and Munson Hospice staff. “Chosen family” Helen Marie Chadwick and Margo Solem have been important sources of guidance and comfort. Memorial gifts can be made to organizations Meg supported: For Haiti With Love or Traverse Bay United Methodist Church. Friends and family will be received Wednesday, October 7 at 10:30 am, with service at 11:00 am at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Interment will follow at noon at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.

Margaret "Meg" Walton

July 3, 1932 - October 2, 2020