Margaret C. "Peg" (Lewis) Hires

Margaret C. "Peg" (Lewis) Hires, age 89, of Mishawaka, IN, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026. Born on September 17, 1936, in Wichita, KS, Peg was the cherished daughter of the late Gelder and May (Malmfeldt) Lewis. Her journey concluded gracefully in Mishawaka, where she was surrounded by the warmth of her loving family.

Peg graduated from Shawnee Mission High School in the class of 1954, setting the stage for a life marked by dedication and service to her community. Her career spanned various roles, including esteemed homemaker to her six children, providing medical transportation services for eight years, as well as testing the limits of innovation as a Bendix test car driver for two years. She was an astute business owner of Hires & Associates, a company that specialized in working at apartment complexes preparing apartments for new tenants in association with American Redecoration, Inc in Kalamazoo, MI.

A true matriarch and entrepreneur, Peg's favorite endeavor was founding the non-profit organization Grandparents as Parents, LLC. For 25 years, she poured her heart and soul into assisting grandparents in the noble and loving task of raising their grandchildren. She provided temporary housing in her home for many teens and some grandmothers with their grandchildren. Her devotion to this cause was nothing short of inspiring.

Beyond her career achievements, Peg was also a person of varied interests and talents. She relished in outdoor activities, especially camping, where she could immerse herself in the tranquility of nature. Peg had a magic touch when it came to sewing and was known for crafting exquisite jewelry, each piece reflecting her meticulous care and artistic spirit. Her joy was magnified when attending the family reunions in Estes Park, Colorado, a testament to over 100 years of family tradition and unity.

Peg leaves behind a legacy of love and memories cherished by her surviving children, Jaci (Dick) Dalke, Scot (Sandy) Hires, Amy Jo Leja, and Leslie (Scott) Alford. Her love and lessons will live on through her 14 adoring grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, dear brothers Bill Lewis and Jim Lewis, and treasured children Pam Stevens and Bill Hires.

Visitation for Peg will be Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 10:30am ~ 11:30am.

A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:30 am at Clay United Methodist Church, 52866 N. Ironwood Rd. South Bend, IN. Palmer Funeral Home – Bubb Chapel is honored to be assisting the family with final arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be donated in Peg’s name to the Center for Hospice 501 Comfort Pl. Mishawaka, IN 46545 and/or Clay United Methodist Church 52866 N. Ironwood Rd. South Bend, IN 46635

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