Margaret Mcgiffen

Margaret Ann McGiffen passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 19. Margaret was born on November 26, 1943 in Vincennes, Indiana, the daughter of Webster Roy McGiffen and Gertrude Louise Dellinger McGiffen. Her childhood was marked by memories at the family dairy and backyard pool with her older sister Joetta, brother David, and baby sister Lucy. A 1961 graduate of Lincoln High School, Margaret loved keeping up with her classmates and attending every class reunion. In 1962, she graduated from the Evansville Beauty College and returned to Vincennes to begin her career as a hairdresser. She made the leap to entrepreneur in 1965 when she opened Margaret's Hair Designs. In addition to being a small business owner, she coached and mentored many young hairdressers into successful cosmetology careers. For decades, Margaret's creativity shined while her clients sat in her chair. She served a large community, and she delighted in getting to know multiple generations of clients and their families. She saw it as a great privilege to be there for many stages of life-from a first haircut, to prom, to weddings, and even, in death. The end of her career was spent as an independent hairdresser, most recently at The Studio. Margaret was a member of the local Hairdressers' Association, Psi Iota Xi, and the state of Indiana Hairdressers' Association, where she participated in many conventions and competitions. Margaret and her partner of 35 years, Andrea Kaskus, shared a rich and vibrant life together. She was a natural hostess, and their home was often a revolving door of family and friends. For many years, Margaret maintained a collection of hundreds of Santa Claus figurines that were proudly on display each holiday season. Their home was made complete by their dogs, Gabby and Poppy and cat, Mr. Sheffield. Margaret was very active in Vincennes. She always knew someone everywhere she went. She always had a story to share, too. You simply knew when Margaret McGiffen walked into a room. Often, she would even announce her own arrival by declaring, "I'm here!" Margaret knew so much about Vincennes, and she was a proud lifelong resident. She was a member of the Harmony Society and the Moose Lodge 281. She and Andrea also enjoyed traveling together. New York City and Caribbean cruises were two of Margaret's favorite travels. Margaret's colorful spirit, unique flair, and love of life will most certainly be missed. Survivors include her partner, Andrea Kaskus; sister, Lucy Martindale of Durham, NC (Al); nieces, Beth Jordan of Olathe, KS (John), Julie Clark of Olathe, KS (Bob), Chris Magruder of Vincennes, IN (Josh), Meredith Martindale Oakes of Durham, NC (Michael); nephews, Jeff Garrard of Evansville, IN (Sheri), Duke McGiffen of Vincennes, IN (Richelle), Phil Martindale of Durham, NC; and many great nieces, great nephews, great-great nieces, and great-great nephews. Margaret was predeceased by her parents, Webster and Gertrude McGiffen, sister Joetta Garrard, brother, David McGiffen, sister-in-law, Margaret L. McGiffen, nephew Davy McGiffen, aunt, Ethylgene Josh and uncle, Joe Josh. The family would like to thank her friends and caregivers for their love and support over the last year and the Good Samaritan Hospice for their care over the last few weeks. A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 30 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. followed by a service at 2 p.m. at the Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home in Vincennes. Immediately following the service, at 3 p.m., family and friends are invited to a celebration of life reception at the Harmony Society, 111 North Second Street, Vincennes. Please bring your favorite memories and stories to share at the reception. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in honor of Margaret to the Good Samaritan Hospice, Vincennes Animal Shelter, or your favorite charity.