(1953-2022)

Peggy Treece Myles was born on January 8, 1953, in Findlay, Ohio, to Jasper and Thelma Treece. She is survived by her sister, Janet Koehl, and her brother Jack, and was predeceased by her brother Eugene (Homer).

Peggy grew up with a love of learning. She received a bachelor’s degree from Findlay College, a master’s degree from Bowling Green State University, and a doctorate from the University of Toledo.

Peggy met her beloved husband, John, while in graduate school. They married in 1980 and lived in Wauseon, Ohio. They traveled often, especially to Maine, where they had dear friends.

A life-long learner and an educator, Peggy’s accomplishments are many. While working on her dissertation, she was introduced to Sister Miriam (Michael) Stimson, OP, who felt that Peggy was a great fit as an adjunct professor on research methodology at Siena Heights College (now University) in Adrian. Through this connection, Peggy was introduced to our Sisters and eventually to Associate Life.

The Adrian Dominican Sisters’ Vision to “seek, truth, make peace, and reverence life” spoke to Peggy profoundly. When Sister Miriam retired from her position as Director of Graduate Studies, Peggy succeeded her. Peggy met Sister Anthonita Porta, OP, founder and director of the Adrian Dominican Montessori Teacher Education Institute. Peggy served as president of the board and Sister Anthonita became her dear friend and mentor. Peggy joined Associate Life in 2001.

For many years, Peggy participated in the New Hope Mission Group and was the only Associate. She was the permanent secretary and worked on projects with Mary Jane Lubinski, OP, Chapter Prioress of Adrian Crossroads Mission Chapter. She embraced every pillar of the Dominican Charism: Prayer, Study, Community, and Service.

From 2009 until the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, Peggy came monthly to Madden Hall to meet with other Associates and participate in a book group. She also worked behind the scenes for many of our Partners gatherings. We could rely on her to give an informed, prayerful response and was generous with her time and talents. Each year, she helped to ensure that every Sister received a Christmas card.

Peggy volunteered at the Ten Thousand Villages store, a not-for-profit fair-trade store. She continued to coach and mentor students working on their dissertations and was involved with Dining for Women. Participants gathered monthly for a potluck dinner and a program about a project in a developing or emerging country. The women donated the money saved through the potluck to the project they studied.

A prolific reader, Peggy studied many publications each month, remaining current on the state of the world in the areas of climate change, immigration, diversity, politics, and the marginalization of peoples.

Peggy also enjoyed sewing, gardening, and watching PBS and BBC. She was a devoted fan of actor Mark Harmon, of NCIS. She participated in the Lands of Dominic and traveled to 27 states, as well as Canada, France, and Spain. She also participated in marches and demonstrations, such as the Women’s March on Washington, D.C.

The last year brought a lot of health challenges to Peggy. She really didn’t want anyone to fuss over her as she battled cancer, which took her life on September 9, 2022.

Peggy leaves a legacy of service, love, devotion, and excellence. 

 

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