Margaret "Pegge" Susan McCluey

Margaret Susan “Pegge” McCluey, 83, passed away at Peace Hospice on October 19, 2026. Pegge lived with spirit and curiosity, cherishing family, friends, adventure, and the many moments she shared with those she loved.

Pegge was born on August 26, 1943, in Santa Monica, California, to Jim and Muriel Ragen. She graduated from Great Falls Central Catholic High School and later attended Pasadena City College. Her adventurous nature led her to earn her student pilot license in 1970, reflecting her willingness to explore new horizons and embrace new experiences. Her grandparents, Gordon and Peggy Robertson, were among her greatest inspirations and held a special place in her life.

During the 1960s and early 1970s, while living in California, Pegge worked as a flight attendant for Western Airlines. She loved traveling and experiencing different parts of the world. It was during her time with Western Airlines that she met Charles “Bucky” McCluey. The two married and welcomed their two children, Gavin and Ragen, who would become the center of her family life.

Although her marriage to Bucky eventually ended in divorce, Pegge’s life was never defined by endings, but by the relationships and experiences that continued to shape her. Her adventures eventually brought her back to Great Falls, Montana, where she built a life surrounded by family, friends, and community. She later married Nick Kenik, who was like a second father to her children, and together they spent countless hours traveling throughout Montana. Though both marriages ended in divorce, Pegge maintained lasting friendships with both Bucky and Nick, a testament to her ability to value people and preserve meaningful connections throughout her life.

Pegge built a successful career in hospitality, working in management at the Heritage Inn and later at the Rocky Mountain Treatment Center before returning to the Heritage Inn, where she eventually retired. Retirement, however, did not mean slowing down for long. She went on to work at Conlin’s, where she enjoyed selling furniture, visiting with customers, and building relationships with coworkers. She continued working until the age of 70, demonstrating the energy, independence, and enthusiasm that characterized her throughout her life.

Outside of work, animals had a special place in her heart, and she found peace and a genuine connection with their company. She also loved music, reading, spending time outdoors, especially in Glacier Park, and cooking for those she cared about. An outstanding cook, she rarely needed a recipe, relying instead on instinct, experience, and her natural talent. For Pegge, food was more than a meal; it was an expression of love and an invitation to spend time together.

Above all, Pegge cherished her family. She is survived by her children, Ragen (Rick) Autumn Heusel and Gavin (Katie) Robertson McCluey, both of Great Falls; and seven grandchildren, Logan Boyer, Bridger Heusel, Ellie McCluey, Jake McCluey, Dugan Mahoney, Declan Mahoney, and Donovan Mahoney.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim Ragen and Muriel Kittock; and her siblings, Duane Roll, Kathy Anderson, and Mark Kittock.

Pegge will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, strong sense of independence, warmth, and devotion to the people who mattered most to her. She embraced life on her own terms, valued the friendships she formed along the way, and found joy in the experiences and relationships that made her life uniquely her own. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, extended family, and the many friends whose lives she touched.

Her life will be celebrated at a memorial service on Friday, November 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at O’Connor Memorial Chapel in Great Falls.

Pegge will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Great Falls Animal Shelter, Peace Hospice, or an organization of your preference.