Margaret L. Smith, 68, of 1021 Central Ave Ext, Oil City, died Sunday, December 4, 2016, at UPMC Northwest in Seneca.
Born November 26, 1948 in Oil City, she was a daughter of the late James G. and Mary Baughman Smith.
Peg was a 1966 graduate of Oil City Senior High School and received an Associate of Science Degree in 1990 from Clarion University majoring in business administration and computer science.
Surviving are a sister, Kathryn Bauer and husband Robert of Gilbert AZ; one niece, Stacey Bauer Gin and husband Jerry of Gilbert AZ; one great nephew, Andrew Bauer Gin and two great nieces, Taylor Melissa Gin and Morgan Elizabeth Gin.
To the best of her ability and talents, it was her commitment to make a positive difference in every avenue and opportunity made available during her life.
A proud native of Oil City and Pennsylvania, Peg was an avid outdoors person with “a little gypsy” in her blood having the opportunity to travel extensively throughout North America, including every state in the United States; almost every Providence in Canada, and many states in Mexico.
Whether backpacking through the Sierra Nevada range in California, photographing grizzlies in Denali National Park in Alaska, motoring across the continent, helicoptering over volcanoes in Hawaii, or snorkeling in the Caribbean, she enjoyed “exploring” and meeting people — an exciting quest.
Although not disabled, awareness of accessibility and the problems encountered while traveling became apparent when she teamed up with her traveling companion and friend, Jackie Runge, who had several disabilities. Adventures covered a vast area from exploring the heights of Mount McKinley (Mount Denali) to the depths of the Pacific in a submarine, discovered anything is possible, if there is a will. Fishing was her passion and she received the Virginia citation and recorded in the record books for landing the largest Red Drum from the beach. The Adventures led to a career in sharing information with others and photojournalism.
Of late she competing in varied canine events with her beloved Yorkie, Tess, the Wonder Dog. Together they achieved 21-titles [in 3-years and then a injury to Tess’s leg prevented them from continuing] and also competing in Nationals in venues of obedience, rallyO and agility and Tess was the first female Yorkshire Terrier to achieve the FFX-AP [the highest agility award] from Front & Finish magazine and ranked #4 in nation in obedience with AKC. While ‘on-the-road’ they amassed ‘a zillion’ trophies and ribbons.
Was actively involved in the following endeavors:
From 1999 to 2012, Peg was a co-founder and owner of Analytical Testing Services, Inc [ATS], Franklin, a world renown testing laboratory started from grassroots. As Vice President, her duties included webmaster of the ATS website, marketing and bids.
She retired from the Quaker State Corporation, Oil City, PA in 1999 after 30-years of service at its Research Center in Seneca, Pa. as COMP (Customized Oil Maintenance Program) Coordinator. The computerized program was “my baby” since it’s grassroots conception in 1972 — the first oil analysis program of its kind in the world! It provided Quaker State customers with a tremendous value and is a powerful marketing tool for the corporation.
Kay was Employed by Daugherty Enterprises from 1966-1969.
She was the founder, CEO and President of Caring for the Caregiver — Jackie’s Chapter (Venango County), a memorial fund whose purpose is to provide a means for the resident of Venango County to convey their appreciation of the role of caregiver in our county. It’s aim to meet the needs of the caregiver — to be here for them, just as they are for us — responding to each in their “time of need!”
She was co-editor of the book entitled: The Rough Guide: Able to Travel — True Stories BY and FOR People with Disabilities published by Penguin USA, New York, NY.
She was co-editor of The Real Guide: Able to Travel — True Stories BY and FOR People with Disabilities published by Prentice Hall, New York, NY.
Kay was Travel Editor for Disabled Outdoors Magazine, Chicago, IL Creator and head of the Travel Department, “Passing The Word,” for the magazine.
As a freelance photojournalist, she was published and featured in various magazines including: Alaska Outdoors, Camping Today (National Campers and Hikers Association publication); Paraplegia News (published by Paralyzed Veterans of American, Inc.); and Trailblazer to name a few.
Peg was a member of the Board of Directors of “The Opening Doors Foundation; Woodford, VA.
Peg created the largest disabled reference database in the USA.
She had interviews that included Ralph Nader.
Peg a contributing writer for the book entitled Dance on the Horizon, publisher The National Library of Poetry: Poem Title: “TIME”.
She was a guest speaker at Clarion University at varied communication courses.
Peg was a semi-finalist in the 1993 North American Open Poetry Contest.
Over the years, she had the opportunity to serve on varied Boards of Directors including President of the Venango Area Community Foundation, the Easter Seals and participating in varied local programs including tutoring for the Literacy Council and founder of the Venango County Area Junior Bowling Association and founder of the first blind bowling league in the area and was a member of Seneca Ladies bowling team for years achieving a 667 series.
Peg devoted many years to her mother, Mary B. Smith and beloved companion, Tess, the Wonder Dog, her Yorkshire Terrier.
There will be no visitation and services will be held at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to a charity of one’s choice.
Please visit the Tribute Wall at www.morrisonhome.com to share a memory or leave a condolence.
