Margaret Mary Schenning, 95, of Janesville and formerly of Kenosha County, passed away peacefully at Oak Park Place Janesville – Memory Care on Dec. 15, 2024, surrounded by her daughter and three grandchildren.
Margaret was the only child born to John and Elizabeth (Hilgarth) Labowsky in Kenosha on April 19, 1929. After graduating from Mary D. Bradford High School in 1947, she began her working life at J.C. Penney. She later took a position as a clerk at the Kenosha County Treasurer’s Office, a job that would change her life forever. It was there she met the new Deputy Sheriff, Richard Schenning. They were married on Feb. 12, 1955, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. As a wedding gift from Richard’s parents, Otto and Florence, the couple received land at Lily Lake, where they built their home. Margaret and Richard lived in that home for the next 60 years, creating countless cherished memories.
Together, Margaret and Richard had three children: Barbara, John, and David. Margaret was a devoted wife and mother, balancing her family’s needs with grace. She took pride in keeping the home front running smoothly, especially while Richard pursued his passion for the outdoors. The couple shared a love for travel, embarking on adventures with their close friends Jerry and Joyce. Their journeys took them to Las Vegas, Hawaii, Alaska, Europe, Ireland, and “up north,” creating treasured experiences and lifelong memories.
A devoted member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in New Munster for over 68 years, Margaret generously gave her time and talents to the church community. She assisted with the school hot lunch program and volunteered at the annual fall festival.
Margaret’s family was her greatest joy. She is survived by her daughter, Barbara (Robert) Brackett of Janesville; granddaughter, Elizabeth (Rocky) Decker, and their children Chase, Jack, Beau, and Emma, all of Janesville; grandsons, Andrew Brackett of Stevens Point, and Alex (Casey) Brackett and their children, Richard and Mitchell, of Janesville. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard in 2014, her son, John in 1976 and her infant son, David in 1966.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Heartland Hospice, particularly Melissa and Jessica, for their compassionate care during Margaret’s final weeks.
Margaret’s legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
The family requests that donations be made to St. Alphonsus Catholic Church or Heartland Hospice in Margaret’s memory.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Margaret will take place on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024 at 11 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church. Other relatives and friends may meet with the family from 9 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place in St. Alphonsus Catholic Cemetery following the Mass.
Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home is serving the family. Well-wishers may visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.