Margaret Frances (Peggy) Kernaghan – June 13, 1925 to July 20, 2002
Peggy was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, where she attended elementary school and McDougal High School. She was a good student, and a junior member of the Edmonton Grads Women’s Basketball team—a team that ruled the world of women’s basketball for a number of years before the Second World War. Peggy enlisted in the Canadian Women’s Army Corps near the end of the war. After her time in the service, Peggy came to visit her sister, who lived in Enderby.
She began employment with D.S. McTavish law firm and continued with other law firms as well as the North Okanagan Health Unit, real estate offices, lumber firms and two different Credit Unions.
Peggy met Bill Kernaghan in Salmon Arm, and they were married in 1948. They had five children—two girls and three boys, and for a while a son and daughter of a friend.
She still found time to volunteer with the Rocky Mountain Rangers Militia, help reorganize the Girl Guides in Salmon Arm. She was a member of the North Okanagan Coin Club and was actively involved with the Royal Canadian Legion. For a time, she held office in the Legion’s North Okanagan Zone.
In addition to her other activities, Peggy raised and enjoyed the company of numerous dogs and cats, two horses, a budgie, various fish and two skunk kittens. Her concern for animals led to Peggy’s involvement with the S.P.C.A., who recognized her in 1992 with the S.P.C.A.’s Humanitarian Award. She continued to volunteer faithfully until her health started to fail. One of the kittens she nursed a number of years ago has remained in the family and is still ruling the roost!
A memorial tribute in Peggy’s name has been endowed with the Shuswap Foundation by the family. The earnings on this contribution will go annually to the BCSPCA (Shuswap Branch).
William David (Bill) Kernaghan – December 6, 2007 (87 years)
The Kernaghan family were true pioneers of Salmon Arm. Bill was born here on January 2, 1920; his father was also born in Salmon Arm. Bill retired from the Federated Co-op, having worked as a saw filer for years. This allowed him years of dedicated work with the Legion and the community.
Bill was predeceased by his wife, Peggy, in 2002. He will be lovingly remembered by his five children, Maureen Hucul of Salmon Arm, Marjorie (Larry) MacMaster of McBride, John (Helena Arsenault) of Enderby, David of Squamish and Jim (Shirley) of Pemberton; five grandchildren, Glenn, Rya (Andrew), Mark (Angie), Darryl and Danny; one great grandchild, Alexi; one great grandson, Joel Vernon; sister, Betty (Harry) Betts; special friend, Irene McCrae; numerous nieces, nephews and many good friends.