Magaret L. Steinz

It is with profound sadness that we relay the passing of Margaret L. (Garcia) Steinz 71 of Chicago, formerly of Peru. Died April 30, 2020, in Chicago. Memorial services will be at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. Ptak Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Margaret was born on October 31, 1948, in Spring Valley to William and Frances (Sikora) Garcia. She graduated from La Salle-Peru High School. She received her M.S. in Adult Education from Northern Illinois University. Over 5 decades that spread across the State of Illinois and beyond, Margaret dedicated her professional life to a passionate belief that education leaves an indelible mark and must be done with the selfless character. She was a beloved teacher at Mendota High School, Hall Township High School, and recently retired at Morton College. She was an instructor and later Coordinator at IVCC. She was a principal Consultant for the Illinois Board of Education. She also was a liaison for the Native American Adult Education. She was also a director of City Colleges of Chicago/ district Office of Adult Education. She was a Grant writer for Chicago Public Schools and was a freelance grant writer up until her recent death. She was an immediate and energetic volunteer in the educational community, most notably volunteered for the CHA Literacy Initiative/ Chicago Public Library, the Central Illinois Adult Education Service Center, and Universidad Popular. Margaret served on the WTTW Community Board from 2010 till present and chaired the Education Committee. She served on the board and was vice president of the American Indian Association of Illinois. She was nominated for Teacher of the year 2 years in a row. She received the Illinois Valley Special Recognition Award for Excellence in Adult Education Development and instruction. She enjoyed gardening, socializing with friends, and being with her grandchildren. She had an insatiable mind for history, literature, human rights and always had a positive impact on whoever she may have encountered with her infectious smile, her wit, and her knowledge. She was a loving mother and friend because of her acts of selflessness, dedication, and compassion through strength and perseverance. Margaret is survived by her beloved daughter Greta (Jason Wagner) Steinz of Peru. 2 sons Adam Steinz and Eric Steinz., 2 beloved grandchildren Roddick and Arabella Wagner. 2 brothers Joe (Donna) Garcia of Serena and Bill (Linda) Garcia of Granville and 1 sister Mary Hodgen of Peoria. Her former dear sister in law Rita (Les) Tieman. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, her former husband Joseph in 2007.

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I am so saddened to learn of Maggie's death. I first met her in 1992 when I began working in Adult Education at Morton College. She was such a generous and compassionate mentor and helped me so much over the years. I especially appreciate her warmth and calming presence as a colleague and a friend. I want to extend my condolences to her children and grandchildren. I am so sorry for your loss and I hope you are sustained by healing memories. Phyllis Walden

Phyllis Walden Jun 11 2020 10:44 AM

I was very saddened with today's news about Margaret's passing. She and worked on a couple of high profile projects at City Colleges of Chicago District Office. Margaret Steinz was a noble guru of Adult Education academic and funding policies. Years later, we were teaching students how to prepare for their GED Math Tests at Morton College. She inspired many students to endure their hardships to successfully earn their GED Certificates. She was a viable educator at both the administrative and teaching level.

Taylor A Cisco Jr. May 28 2020 6:30 PM

Cheryl, thank you ever so much for your fond memory of my mother. She will truly be missed beyond words...hugs to you and you are in my deepest regard! :yellow_heart::yellow_heart::yellow_heart: Greta

Greta Steinz May 26 2020 10:56 AM

Thank you again EVER so much for being the greatest friend my mother ever had. You mean the world and beyond to my family. Her legacy lives on through all of you and I am more thankful than you will ever know for this and more. Hugs to you Dorene! I love you tons!!! :yellow_heart::yellow_heart::yellow_heart: Greta

Greta Steinz May 26 2020 10:54 AM

Margarita, I thank you ever so much! She loved all of her students!!! I do believe I remember you helping my mother as well. Your kind words are cherished! You are in my highest regard. Keep her forever in your heart! Continue to do good and spread her kindness further. Hugs!!! :yellow_heart::yellow_heart::yellow_heart:Greta

Greta Steinz May 26 2020 10:52 AM

Nancy, THANK YOU ever so much for your fond memories of my mother! They are truly cherished! I remember her telling me about her baton days when she presented me with one when I was little. I miss her IMMENSELY. You are in my highest regard! Hugs!!! :yellow_heart::yellow_heart::yellow_heart:

Greta Steinz May 26 2020 10:50 AM

Linda, thank you ever so much for your friendship and kind words towards my mother and extending that friendship onto me. Your words are cherished! You are in my deepest regard! Hugs!!! :yellow_heart::yellow_heart::yellow_heart:

Greta Steinz May 26 2020 10:47 AM

Thank you EVER so much for your kind words of my mother! I truly appreciate it! My deepest regard! :yellow_heart::yellow_heart::yellow_heart:Greta

Greta Steinz May 26 2020 10:45 AM

Thank you ever so much Mrs. Miss!!! I always loved you!!! When I see you, you always bring the brightest memories back and cant help but to smile soooo big!!!! I appreciate this memory of my mother more than you ever will know!!! Hugs!!!! :yellow_heart::yellow_heart::yellow_heart:Greta

Greta Steinz May 26 2020 10:42 AM

Kathy, thank you ever so much for your fond memory of my mom. She truly loved Mendota! It was her birthplace and she held nothing but high regard for everyone she came in contact there and helped her flourish to what she accomplished in her lifetime. This means a lot to me! Hugs!!! :yellow_heart::yellow_heart::yellow_heart:Greta

Greta Steinz May 26 2020 10:40 AM

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