There are rare people whom we are occasionally fortunate enough to meet or know; those who change us in ways all remarkable, ineluctably and inexorably. Mostly, we know about them only in books, articles and films, folks with fame. These are people who favor living example over self-promotion, love and its allies, kindness, hope and friendship over hate and its cronies, selfishness, despair and conceit. They look at others in the eye, listen and say little. And, when a response is requested, they speak with a gentle harmony of heart and mind leaving the listener with more than expected, wisdom wrapped in a smile.
Fortunately, there are some of these special people among us for a time. One such person, Margaret Ione Meek, was born in July, 1921, in Grand Junction, Colorado, the second child of Glenroy and Althea Ballinger. She was raised in Helper, Utah and attended Wasatch Academy, and then the University of Redlands. A blind date, arranged by her older sister and husband, introduced \"Peggy\" to Army Air Corps Captain Frank E. Meek, Jr., whom she married in November, 1947. They were together for nearly sixty years until his death in 2007.
Through her ninety-five years, she traveled the world, sat as a constant oracle to her two sons, bravely slid on snow despite an abiding fear of heights and painted her experiences, feelings and wonder in watercolors, charcoal and oils with extraordinary skill and enormous verve, highlighting the textures and palettes of her life. This is a woman who will be missed and remembered, recognized and treasured. She has given her family and many friends that most human of gifts, indefatigable laughter and love.
Margaret is survived by her two sons, F. E. Meek, 3rd, Dr. Sanford G. Meek, (Lynn Koshland), two grandchildren, Chantal and Joseph (Emily), a tribe of great-grandchildren, Ethan, Novi, Tala, Audric, Nali and another on the way in March, younger brother Robert Ballinger, (Delphi) and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her sisters Betty and Jean (Richard Smith) and brother James Ballinger (Annette). She also leaves good friends at Parklane, both residents and staff. Additionally, great thanks are extended to Envision Home, Health and Hospice, especially Minnie and Wendy and all of the caregivers who worked with love and respect.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Any contributions in her name could be made to a local animal shelter in lieu of flowers.
With her death, the candle has been extinguished, but its immutable, lovely light lives beyond the dark.
