Peggy Houser, 73, of Reigel Rd. in Kane, PA passed away on Thursday (March 14) at UPMC Hamot in Erie, PA.

Born on October 20, 1950 in Kane, she is the daughter of the late Clyde and Carolyn (Hetrick) Van Straten. On June 18, 1976 in Kane, she married Donald Houser who survives.

Peggy loved art and loved sharing it with people. She owned a ceramics shop for many years where she helped others to create art. When her customers were worried they couldn’t do something she would remind them that “it’s just paint” and that they could do it.

Later, Peggy taught middle school art where she impacted so many students. She taught them that art is everywhere and that they could do anything they wanted to do if they put their mind to it. She helped and encouraged them however they needed in any way she could.

After retiring, Peggy spent more time volunteering with organizations like the Kane Food Pantry and the Kane Depot. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Kane School Retirees, and the Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees. She spent more time with friends, enjoyed outings, and loved playing and visiting with her Mahjong group. Peggy also spent more time creating her beautiful beaded jewelry and artwork. She loved the way the beads felt in her hands, creating masterpieces, and helping her customers find the perfect piece of jewelry.

Peggy prided herself in being “a lifelong student.”  She earned a BS in Art Education from Edinboro State College in 1972 and a Master of Education from Gannon University in 2003.  She also attended various classes that interested her throughout her life.

Throughout her life, Peggy was welcoming to everyone she met. She loved to help people. She lived by the golden rule, gave the best hugs, had the warmest smile, and had the most amazing laugh.

Peggy is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Donald; a daughter, Michele (Michael) Rockwell; and sister, Wendy Van Straten.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Friends are invited to attend a visitation on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm & 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Cummings Funeral Home, Inc., Kane, PA.

Memorials may be made to Kane Area Food Pantry, Shriner’s Hospital in Erie, Friends’ Memorial Library in Kane; or donor’s choice.

Online condolences can be given at www.cummingsfh.com