Margaret Biegger

On July 2, 2020, Margaret Ann (Leonhardt) Biegger, loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, died at the age of 87.

Margaret was born on October 23, 1932 in San Antonio, Texas to Harry and Irene Leonhardt. She spent time in Council Bluffs and Omaha before moving to Des Moines where she attended St. Joseph’s Academy. During high school she met Joseph “Duane” Biegger. They married at. St. John’s Basilica in 1952 and moved to Colorado Springs before Duane was sent overseas during the Korean war. Upon his return, they settled in Des Moines where they raised five sons. Margaret also worked as a medical office manager and nursing assistant.

Margaret’s passion and great love was for her family and her faith. She and Duane recently celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary. Together they had five sons, John (Debbi), Brian (Kim), David (Beth), Mark (Mary), and Mike (Colleen); 17 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Irene; as well as her brothers, Bernie and Frank.

They were long-time parishioners of St. Theresa’s and later belonged to St Francis Parish. They were also strong supporters of Dowling Catholic High School where three generations of their family have attended. Duane and Margaret traveled extensively to visit their family living across the United States and even in Mexico and England. Margaret cherished any type of family gathering and loved providing special treats like her famous chocolate-chip cookies.

Margaret will have a small private family-only funeral at St Francis followed by burial at Iowa Veterans Cemetery. Next summer the family is planning a memorial celebration of her life to include extended family and friends.

Margaret’s family would like to thank the staff at Kennybrook Village for their love and care of Margaret and their continued care of Duane.

Memorials may be directed to Dowling Catholic High School. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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