Peggy Grace Ireland

Peggy Grace Ireland, 94, of Marion, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Northbrook Manor Care Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The family will greet friends from 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at the Red Cedar Lodge at Wanatee Park, with a Celebration of Life to follow at 3:00 p.m.

Peggy was born on April 6, 1931, in Freeport, Illinois, the daughter of McKinley and Anna (Beard) Anderson. She was a graduate of Polo High School in Illinois. On July 30, 1954, Peggy was united in marriage to William Wesley Ireland and together, they had five children.

She lived a life dedicated not only to her family but also to her profession and community. Peggy embarked on her career journey by attending nursing college in Evanston, Illinois, where she graduated in 1952. She began her professional path as an Operating Room nurse, demonstrating a profound commitment to patient care. Her dedication to advancing her skills led her to further her education, eventually becoming one of the first Nurse Practitioners in the country. Throughout her career, she worked for Dr. Hubbart at the Lake of the Ozarks, as well as at Planned Parenthood in both Ottumwa, Iowa, and Springfield, Illinois. Peggy retired in 1994, leaving behind a legacy of compassionate healthcare.

An active member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Peggy was involved with the quilter's group, where she found joy in creating and contributing to the church community through her craftsmanship and fellowship. Her involvement extended beyond the church; she was a proud 50-year member of PEO, a philanthropic organization that nurtures the advancement of women, highlighting her dedication to supporting others. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched.

Peggy is survived and lovingly remembered by her five children, Linda (Joseph) Olejar of Elon, North Carolina, Diane “Joni” (Stephen) Wampler of Marion, William Ireland of Denver, Colorado, James Ireland of Gardner, Kansas, and Susan (Rod) Colbert of McHenry, Illinois; six grandchildren, Joey Olejar, Sarah Olejar, Allie (Jared) Wampler Sagaga, Caitlin Wampler, Nick Colbert, and Tori Ireland; and four great-grandchildren, Adrian, Sammy, Gabi, and Keanu.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, William Ireland; and siblings, Frances, Helen, Jim, and Mary.

Memorials in Peggy’s memory may be directed to Emma Goldman Clinic in Iowa City at https://www.emmagoldman.com or The HACAP Food Bank in Cedar Rapids, by mailing a check to: HACAP at PO Box 490, Hiawatha, Iowa 52233. (Please make sure to include your program designation of choice in the memo line. Federal Tax ID Number: 42-0898405)