Margaret Mary Bard

Margaret Mary Bard, 98 years of age, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, December 24th, 2022.

Margaret was born January 29th, 1924 and lived in Port Orchard Washington all of her life, including attending South Kitsap High School. She married the late Alva “Al” Bard in 1941 where the couple enjoyed 53 years of marriage. From this marriage came 3 beautiful daughters the late Kathy Gleason and survivors Virginia “Ginny” Leighton and Shirley McKie. Al and Margaret raised their family in Port Orchard Washington, where many members of the family still reside.

In addition to 2 of her daughters Margaret is also survived by her 2 son-in laws Randy Leighton, and Roy McKie, her 6 grandchildren: Donna Ransier, Robert Cook, Kristen Weatherly, Jason McKie, Joe Gleason and Mary Edwards, 5 great-grandchildren: Melinda Jenkins, Steven Ransier, Nathan Cook, Ashleigh Skattum and Brittney Cook and 11 great-great grandchildren: Brandon, Olivia, Makayla, Amaya, Rayna, Amelia, Savannah, Maisie, Alayah, Rory and Oliver.

Our beloved Margaret was the matriarch of our family. Often sought out for her guidance and unwavering love for all of life’s quandaries. Throughout her life she was a devout Roman Catholic and member of St. Gabriel church in Port Orchard for over 50 years. Attending midnight Mass was one of her favorite church activities along with taking family members to Mass. Margaret was a woman of many talents including sewing, painting, crafting, cooking, baking, gardening. She had a witty sense of humor and was always eager to share a laugh with her friends and loved ones. Margaret was a wonderful care taker and devoted mother. Once her daughters were raised she spent many years caring for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren when called upon. A favorite past time of Margaret’s was going to Ocean Shores where her and Al had owned property. Flying kites, long walks on the beach, clamming, sitting around bonfires and making mud pies with her many grandchildren were some of her favorite beach activities.

Of her many talents and gifts, her unwavering love and “come as you are” spirit made her beloved by many. She took great pride in spending time and forming close relationships with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. She attended everything from plays, to sporting events and concerts to show love and support for their ambitions and activities. One of Margaret’s most cherished traditions was hosting Easter dinner each year at her little house in Port Orchard for the entire family. Serving her favorite dishes and relishing in the togetherness of all of us in gathering in her home. Gone but certainly not forgotten, her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, March 4th at Saint Gabriel Catholic Church in Port Orchard, Washington at 10:00am with a Rosary at 9:30am.