Today we remember Margaret Brundin on what would have been her 105th birthday.
Margaret was one of those rare people who made a lasting impact without ever needing to be the center of attention. She was quiet but strong, warm but no-nonsense, and her love showed up in the little things—fresh-baked bread, a pot of coffee that never ran out, a kitchen always open to hungry grandkids or anyone else who needed something to eat. She helped raise a family, supported her community, and showed up every day for the people around her. She sewed blankets for others, cracked walnuts by hand for the Grange, and never seemed to stop moving—whether she was tending her garden, milking the cow, or making sure the house was cared for.
She had a soft spot for babies, puppies, her grandchildren—and great grandsons, who were the light of her life. And even though she was sweet, she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. When she spoke, people listened. She carried herself with wisdom and knew how to make people feel like things were going to be okay—because when she was around, they usually were.
Margaret had a gift for making ordinary moments feel meaningful. She didn’t need big gestures. She gave love through care, consistency, and presence—and that’s something everyone who knew her still carries today.
“Grandma loved, and was loved by everyone she met. She enjoyed laughing, sharing her ice cream, and giving lots of hugs and kisses. I’m sure we watched every episode of Gilligan’s Island and CHiPs a few times over. Above all, Grandma loved her grandchildren. One of her mottos was, “Don’t ever get mad at nobody. Being angry don’t do you any good.” We would talk about the meaning of that and, more deeply, it meant that it is okay to be upset… but to deal with anger internally and in a manner that does not create conflict between oneself and others. Grandma had a great soul and a lifetime of experience to learn from.” –Michael Shackelford, Great Grandson & Blue Lake Rancheria Tribal Council Member
“She was a sweetheart. She loved everybody, and never hated anyone. She was always willing to sit and listen and give advice.” –Charise Shackelford, Granddaughter & Blue Lake Rancheria Tribal Member
“Grandma would call almost every day and when you answered she would say “Good morning, good morning, good morning!” It was a wonderful way to start the day. She would then laugh and chit chat for a bit. It always brightened my day and is a great memory. I always enjoyed cooking with Grandma – stirring, mixing, learning grandma’s way. We would make tapioca pudding often as we had an abundance of milk and eggs from the cow and chickens. Learning to garden and when to water, planting and harvesting. Picking peas, green beans, and corn or eating a tomato straight from the garden. Grandma and her son, Butch, would watch Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy each night. On the final puzzle and final Jeopardy, they would be on the phone to discuss their answers. That was Butch’s way of checking in and saying good night. David enjoyed spending time with Grandma Margaret. They would drink coffee, watch football, baseball, or a gameshow, and just visit. Grandma would save the Sunday Times-Standard so David could do the puzzles and read the comics.” –Audrey Baldosser, Granddaughter & Blue Lake Rancheria Tribal Member
Happy birthday, Margaret. You are missed, loved, and remembered.
Originally Published: 8/9/2025