Wendy Joann Magargal, 69

Born January 5, 1956 in Oak Park, Michigan, daughter of the late Paul and Sally Rankin, passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at age 69.

Wendy attended Central Michigan University, where she studied elementary education with a focus on art recreation. She spent over 40 years as a childcare educator, where her passion for art and love of nurturing creativity led her to inspire countless children. In 1986, she married the love of her life, Don Magargal. They enjoyed 39 years of marriage. Wendy was a compassionate and loving mother to her two children and, as an avid animal lover, many fur babies throughout the years. Known to most as “Miss Wendy,” her favorite titles were Wife, Mother, and Nana. A lifelong fan of the Detroit Lions, she also loved cheering on her two grandsons while they played sports. Wendy would always be found wearing a smile and an angel pin.

She is survived by her husband; their two children, Shane (Elizabeth) Magargal and Aubrey (Chris) Kwarta; her two grandchildren, Declan and Killian; and her brother, Mike Rankin, and sister, Cheryl Jones.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to make memorial contributions can make them to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital.

Add My Condolences

Wendy was the brightest light I’ve ever seen in another human. Always smiling and so kind. Her and Don’s hospitality to be as a new neighbor grew into a many year friendship. I will never forget her kindness and love she showed me. I am so so terribly sorry for your loss of such an amazing person.

~ Eli Pottstown, PA
12/18/2025 12:50:50 AM

This loss has been one of great shock and sadness. Aunt Wendy was such a warm, loving person who cared so deeply for family, friends, and animals alike. She never failed to reach out in celebration of big milestones or to exchange kind, thoughtful messages. She even recently took the time to wish our cat a speedy recovery - a gesture that perfectly sums up the deeply thoughtful, loving person she was to all who knew her.

We offer our deepest condolences to Uncle Don, Shane, and Aubrey. You are in our hearts.

Callie & DeMarco

~ Callie Wilson Ann Arbor, MI
12/17/2025 4:02:04 PM

My heartfelt sympathy to all of cousin Wendy's family, especially Don, Shane and Aubrey. Heaven's newest angel was such a special person in so many ways. 💗

~ Judy Shary
12/17/2025 3:37:11 PM

It’s hard to find the words to explain how heartbroken we are. When I think about Aunt Wendy I think about sunshine and ocean breezes, animals snuggles, imagination, laughter, and the endless love she had for her family and friends. She will be missed beyond words.

Sending our love to you all.
Libbey & Collin

~ Libbey Merrell
12/17/2025 12:57:59 AM

Wendy's passing has been such a shock, just days ago we were discussing her pending shoulder repair and recovery plans.

Wendy was a very kind and giving person who always put others ahead of herself, Don, Shane and Aubrey, the grandkids who had a second home with Wendy and Don, and the many decades of kids she taught and cared for in their pre school years. The critters Wendy brought home and loved so much always had the best down to the feral cats in her neighborhood who were regularly fed.

Wendy will be missed by all who knew her.

Rest in peace sister.

~ Mike Rankin
12/16/2025 6:47:34 PM

I’m so sorry for the loss of a beautiful and caring woman. I’ll miss seeing her on occasion at our breakfast place. She took care of my 3 granddaughters and still remembers them. Rest Easy Miss Wendy.

~ Linda Marlow Limerick, PA
12/16/2025 6:36:38 PM

Wendy, how can this be? From sharing a room growing up, to navigating sisterhood long distance, you were always 'there'. From being my daily Wordle challenger to sharing life's events, travel plans and pics. recipes....sharing our kid's achievements as well as many, many pictures of grandkids. It's impossible to think that you are gone...so I will just continue to navigate this 'new' long distance.

Our shared condolences to Don, Shane and Aubrey
Love Aunt Cheryl and Uncle JJ

~ Cheryl Jones
12/16/2025 6:19:56 PM

Wendy, your kindness knew no bounds. You were and will remain in my heart for always. Rest in peace gentle angel.❤️

~ Pam Newman
12/16/2025 5:51:11 PM

Heaven has another angel. Wendy was my college roommate and lifelong friend. I am in shock. Love and prayers to her entire family. Wendy leaves a gigantic hole, but also love in everyone’s heart who ever got to know her. See you on the other side, Wendy

~ Kathy MacKenzie
12/16/2025 5:08:34 PM

So saddened by this loss. Love, thoughts, and prayers for the Rankin and Margardal families.

~ Janet rankin
12/16/2025 4:21:22 PM

My shock and grief were incredibly debilitating at the sad news 💔 of my sweet cousin's passing.

My love and condolences from thousands of miles away in England.

I will be making a generous donation to St Jude's.

Andrew

~ Andrew Rankin Newmarket, CAMBRIDGESHIRE
12/16/2025 4:10:23 PM

Sending all the love and hugs to each of you in my east coast family. This is such a shock, I can't really put into words my feelings at this time, but I hope to see you all soon. Love you all, and my deepest condolences.

-Jake

~ Jacob Rankin Taylor, MI
12/16/2025 3:57:01 PM

I'm gonna miss you, Wen! I'll always remember when we were always in trouble... with a smile.🩷💜

~ Judy Strock
12/16/2025 3:10:18 PM