Margaret F Hensler

Margaret Hensler passed away peacefully in early September 2026 at age 94. Known over the years as Marg, Mag, Marge, Muggsie, Aunt Margaret, Mom, and Grandma Hen, she lived a life defined by warmth and service.

Born to Thomas and Elizabeth in Pennsylvania, Margaret attended St. John Elementary School in Bellefonte and State College High School. Guided by a deep desire to care for others, she pursued a career in healthcare and earned her nursing degree from the Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Pittsburgh.

Carrying her nursing spirit into everyday life, Margaret maintained a deep commitment to helping those in need. She generously shared her time across her community by editing parish newsletters, volunteering at the Rainier School in Buckley and L’Arche Farm, serving on the Pierce County Elder Council, and supporting unhoused neighbors through the St. Leo Sandwich Brigade. Later on, during her many quiet days, Margaret collected poetry, wrote letters, prepared thoughtful gifts, traveled to be with family, and supported the arts. She formed deep, lasting friendships that she treasured and maintained throughout her life, from Pennsylvania to New York to Montana to Washington State.

Family was at the center of Margaret’s world. Raising eight children, she had an incredible ability to make each one feel uniquely cherished. Whether cheering from the sidelines of a game, attending a musical performance, hosting a crowded family gathering, or carefully planning ahead for her own care, she poured her heart into her family's comfort and happiness. Even in her final days, when words became difficult, she spoke those that mattered most: "I love you."

Margaret was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Gene Hensler; her parents; her brother, Tom; and her sisters, Mary, Betty, and Joan.

She leaves behind a rich legacy of love through her eight children and their partners: Mary & Tom, Joe & Lisa, Dave & Arni, Charlie & Judy, Tom & Kira, Eileen Marie, Elizabeth, and Jane & Jeff. As Grandma Hen, she delighted in: Lindsay, Luke, Mark, Taylor, Alex, Zubin, Zoe, Amelia, Suzanne, Lydia, Erin, Abi, Kaira, and Cate. She was blessed with eight great-grandchildren.

Margaret’s family wishes to thank her caregivers, especially those of this past year, for the extraordinary support given to her wellbeing and encouragement of her spirit.

Service & Memorial Information

Memorial: A Memorial Service will be held on October 9 at 10:00 a.m., St. Leo Catholic Church, 710 South 13th Street, Tacoma, WA.

Memorial Donations: In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made in Margaret’s honor to the St. Leo Food Connection: https://pushpay.com/g/foodconnection or to The Walk to End Alzheimer's: River Rock Rovers Donation Website.