Margaret (Marge) A. Botchie, born on August 12, 1946, in Lockbourne, Ohio, passed away on Oct. 3, 2026, at the Moorings of Arlington Heights Health Center, Arlington Heights IL. She was the beloved daughter of John Robert and Caroline Botchie. John passed away on Sept 9, 1904; Caroline passed away on July 26, 2004. Marge grew up with her younger sister, Rita S. (Botchie) Jones, and younger brother, Thomas M. Botchie (wife, Sara Jane). Margaret graduated from Saint Joseph’s Academy in Columbus, Ohio, in 1964. In September of that same year, she entered the Sisters of Notre Dame convent, where she remained until June 1967. Marge went on to complete her college degree in elementary education in 1969 at the Ohio State University and taught for one year in the Columbus City Schools. In June 1971, she enrolled at the University of Michigan and earned her master’s degree in library science in 1972.

After graduating, Marge moved to the outskirts of Chicago and began her career as a librarian at Field School with the Park Ridge schools in 1972. Marge retired in 2002 after serving in the Library/Media Center and as a Curriculum Specialist for 35 years in the Park Ridge District #64. During her years there she was very active in and served as the President of the Park Ridge Education Association.

Visits to Door County, National Wildlife Federation programs, classes at the Clearing, reunions and traveling with her dear friends from her high school days, from the convent group, as well as colleagues from Park Ridge days filled Marge’s days with laughter and lifelong friendships.

Her love of photography allowed her to share her art with many friends and colleagues. The walls of her homes were covered by her own artwork and special purchases she made from her many travels. She volunteered in the community at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, and the Chicago Botanic Gardens for many years. Marge also volunteered at Rainbow Hospice and served on the board of the HOA for the Windgate development. After retirement, Marge moved to the Moorings of Arlington Heights where she lived for 13 years while she developed many new friendships in addition to retaining her many lifelong relationships.

Marge will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the love she shared with those around her. Her life touched family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her loving family and lifelong friends, who will cherish her memory always. Services and internment will be scheduled at a later day at St. Joseph Cemetery in Columbus, OH. Donations in Marge’s name can be made to the Chicago Botanic Gardens (chicagobotanic.org), the Arlington Heights Memorial Library (www.ahml.info), the Clearing (theclearing.org) or to the charity of your choice.