Margaret Ann Calai

Margaret Calai, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and proud veteran, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on January 17, 1937, Margaret lived a life filled with love, adventure, and service to her country.

Margaret served in the United States Air Force as an Airman Second Class, dedicating two years of her life to her nation. Her service took her to Shepperd Air Force Base in Texas and Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, where she created lasting memories.

She was a woman of many passions, most notably her love for the NFL and the Cincinnati Bengals, which was a source of pride and joy for her. Margaret found solace in the great outdoors, often taking long walks and cherishing the beauty of nature. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel extensively, with many cherished trips to Disney World, where she reveled in the magic of the parks. Music played a significant role in her life, bringing her great joy; she frequently attended music events at her nursing home, where she shared her love of melody and rhythm with fellow residents. Margaret was also an animal lover.

Margaret is survived by her loving daughters, Christine (Jesse) Shaw and Kathleen (Charles) Lindner, and her son, Charles (Kim) Calai. She leaves behind an extensive legacy of love through her grandchildren: Joe Calai, Jake (Hannah) Calai, Jennifer Calai, James Calai, Josh Calai, Briana (Bryan) Wendel, Heather Lindner, Nick (Sam) Lindner, Ashton Lindner, Summer Shaw, and Skye Shaw. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Evelyn Wendel, Logan Gray, Rosalie Lindner, Charles James Lindner, and Landon Lindner.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Calai, children, David Nolan and Angelena Calai, parents, Eugene and Velma Hadley, and siblings, Evelyn, Bob, and Jim.

In this time of grief, they take comfort in knowing that Margaret’s spirit will live on in their cherished memories and the love she bestowed upon them. May she rest in peace.