Margaret Ellen Gill Obituary

Margaret Ellen Gill
May 17, 1955 – May 23, 2024

Margaret Ellen Gill, an extraordinary artist, designer, and landscape architect, passed away of natural causes on May 23, 2024, at the age of 69. Born in Appleton, Wisconsin, on May 17th in 1955 to Alfred and Harriet Gill, Margaret’s vibrance and unique perspective left an indelible mark on those who knew her.

Margaret pursued her passion for art with unrelenting dedication. She earned a master’s degree in graphic design and became known for her abstract paintings, which captured the essence of her dreams and imagination. Her later work as a landscape architect and arborist reflected her deep connection to nature, blending her artistic vision with a love for the environment.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Margaret shared her knowledge and creativity as an art teacher, inspiring countless students with her enthusiasm and expertise. Her love for cooking and providing memorable experiences for her family was a testament to her generous spirit and commitment to creating joy in the lives of others.

While Margaret faced significant challenges throughout her life, including struggles with mental illness, she remained a complex and deeply passionate individual. Her journey was marked by both profound achievements and personal hardships, and she chose to shield much of her immediate family and friends from the negative impacts of this experience.

Margaret is survived by her sons, Bryce and Spencer Benlon from Kansas City; her brothers James, John, Dan and his wife Doreen, and Rodney Gill, and her sisters, Judi and her husband Richard Plisch, Edith and her husband Dennis Nack, Linda and her husband Gregg Woldt, Diana Gill, Joanne Shepherd, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother Harriet Gill, father Alfred Gill, brother Russ Gill, sister Carol and her husband Joe Schroetter, Joanne's husband Larry Shepherd, and James' wife Andrea Gill. She is also remembered by her extended family and friends who were touched by her artistic legacy and unique personality.

A private celebration of life will be held to celebrate Margaret’s journey and artistic contributions from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM on August 24th, 2024 at Patriot Park, 2950 W. Darling St, Appleton, WI. In lieu of flowers, the family requests photos of/with her for the service and/or donations be made to Bring Change to Mind (https://bringchange2mind.org) in her honor. Thank you to Linda Woldt, Jenni Jochman, Rodney Gill, and others for contributing so much time and many resources to make this happen.

Margaret’s life was a tapestry of remarkable achievements and complex experiences. Her legacy lives on through her art, her influence as a teacher, and the impact she had on those who were fortunate enough to witness her creative brilliance.