Margaret Helen Kirkey

Margaret Helen (Niederbaumer) Kirkey passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Bethany on the Lake. She was 86 years old. Visitation will be held from 3:00-6:00 PM on Sunday, May 17th, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home with a prayer service at 3:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, May 18th, 2026, at St. Mary's Catholic Church with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be held later that day at Graceville Consolidated Cemetery in Graceville, MN.

Margaret Helen (Niederbaumer) Kirkey was born on May 2, 1940, in Wheaton, Minnesota; the beloved daughter of William and Sophia (Kemp) Niederbaumer. She grew up on a farm as an only child, where her faithful dog and goat provided companionship during her formative years.

Margaret graduated from high school in Wheaton in 1958. Following graduation, she began her working life as a cashier at Willy's Grocery Store. It was during this period that she met Joseph Kleindl, and they married in June 1961. The couple relocated first to Clinton, Minnesota, and then to Barry, Minnesota, where they were dairy farmers and raised four sons: Gary, Dean, Curtis, and Eugene. Tragically, Joseph passed away in 1968, leaving Margaret to navigate early widowhood.

Determined to move forward, Margaret found new happiness with William "Quack" Kirkey, whom she married on December 29, 1969. Quack lovingly embraced the role of stepfather to her sons and supported Margaret in raising them. The family expanded their joy in 1976 with the adoption of a precious daughter, Kimberly. Together, they worked tirelessly on the farm, raising hogs and beef cows and cultivating grain.

Margaret's dedication extended beyond the farm. She lent her culinary talents as a cook at both the Grace Home and Graceville High School, nurturing others with her home-cooked meals. In 1991, she and Quack relocated to Alexandria, Minnesota. There, Margaret discovered her calling in the fabric department at Walmart, where over 25 years, she forged many lasting friendships and became a treasured part of the store community until her retirement.

Known for her forthright nature, Margaret was never afraid to speak her mind, always expressing herself honestly. Her warmth and openness allowed her to connect effortlessly with people in all aspects of her life. A gifted cook and baker, she was especially renowned for her homemade pickles, a recipe that brought delight to family and friends alike. Margaret’s creativity flourished in quilting, sewing—particularly making doll clothes—and gardening. She took great joy in canning garden produce and enjoyed late-night game shows. One of her fondest memories was taking trips to other towns with her girls to select beautiful fabrics for their creative projects.

Margaret, a cherished mother, grandmother, and valued member of the Alexandria community, passed away on May 13, 2026, at Bethany on the Lake at 86 years old. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her loved ones and the countless friends who knew her.

Margaret leaves behind a legacy woven through the lives of her children, Gary (Annette) Kleindl, Dean Kleindl, Curtis (Sue) Kleindl, Eugene Kleindl, and Kimberly (Chuck) Simon; grandchildren, Amy (Donny) Sigler, Jessica (Dave) Krogsrud, Joseph (Desiree) Kleindl, Scott Kleindl, Tracy Kleindl, Logan (Grace) Kleindl, Tyler (Alana) Kleindl, Brandon Kleindl, Spencer Kleindl, Lucas Simon, and Halle Simon; and great grandchildren, Rylee, Jace, Curtis, Coltin, Mason, Mary, Harper, and Otto. Margaret is preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Joseph Kleindl; and husband, William Kirkey.