Margaret Ann Schenkel, 89, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, peacefully ended her earthly journey on November 24, 2025. Born in Limon, Costa Rica, she was the daughter of John Riley Pendergrass of Coffeeville, Mississippi, and Grace Blanca Delgadillo of Blue Fields, Nicaragua.

After spending her early years oceanside in Costa Rica with her brother John Riley Pendergrass Jr., Margaret and family moved to the U.S. where she attended St. Mary's Catholic Grade School in Fort Wayne, and Central Catholic High School. She graduated with honors and was a performer in theater as well as the Fort Wayne Ballet. She married the love of her life in 1955, John (Jack) Schenkel (Notre Dame, '56) and together they welcomed a beautiful family of seven children.

Margaret was an enthusiastic ballet and jazz instructor, taught piano lessons to her grandchildren, and started a successful flooring business (Floor Fashions on Broadway) . She was also a founding member of The Christ Child Society of Fort Wayne, in which she was involved for many years. This organization provides aid and alternatives to pregnant women in crisis.

Margaret's sincere passion was her faith and her family, values that she instilled in all of her children. She and Jack are responsible for the family's greatest, happiest memories spent at Adams Lake, Indiana.

Margaret is survived by her children, John (Tammie) Schenkel Jr., Judy Schenkel Bridges, Dan (Susie) Schenkel, Matt (Susan) Schenkel, Susan Logan, Dave (Lisa) Schenkel and Elizabeth (Kirk) Parker, 41 Grandchildren, 56 Great-Grandchildren, and 2 Great-Great Grandchildren.

Gone before her in faith is her husband Jack Schenkel, brother John Riley Pendergrass, Jr., son-in-law Jim Bridges; grand children Theresa Marie Logan, Thomas Riley Logan, Charlie Schenkel and George Schenkel.

Mass of Christian Burial is Friday, December 19th at 10:30 a.m. at St. Charles Catholic Church with calling one hour prior. Visitation is on Thursday, December 18th from 4:00- 8 pm (Rosary at 3:30 p.m.) at The Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 1986 Cedar Canyons Rd., Huntertown, IN.

In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials to The Christ Child Society of Fort Wayne are appreciated.