Peggy Kalis

Peggy Kalis, beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, and friend, was born on June 5, 1953, in Defiance, Ohio. She passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, in Allendale, Michigan, following a courageous five-month battle with cervical cancer. She is now in the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Peggy was the cherished daughter of Clayton and Mary Leeder, a devoted mother to Mike Kalis and Marie Kalis, and a deeply involved and loving grandmother to Noah, Jacob, Elijah, and Nathan Kalis. Her grandchildren were the joy of her life, and she poured herself into their upbringing with intention, creativity, and love.

Peggy had an extraordinary zest for life that carried her across the globe and through many seasons of purpose. Her travels took her to India, Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond, reflecting her curiosity, courage, and love for people and culture.

She possessed a unique spirit that led her to pursue equally unique callings. Over the course of her life, Peggy served faithfully in children’s ministries at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, held executive leadership roles within a Fortune 500 company, and—never content to stop learning—returned to school at age of 58, spending five years earning her Master’s degree in Chiropractic. She later became a flight attendant with Delta Airlines, combining her love of service and travel.

Peggy also helped found Maple Forever Farms, a family baking business where she made incredible hand pies and pretzels alongside her grandchildren, selling them at the local market on weekends. Those moments—working side by side, laughing, teaching, and creating—were among her greatest joys.

She was instrumental in the homeschooling of her grandchildren and had a gift for creating curious and unforgettable adventures: trips to Lake Michigan, “up north,” glorious Airbnb stays, the zoo, and countless other outings that were always thoughtful, fun, and just a little bit unconventional. For a season, she even became a beekeeper—another example of her willingness to try something new simply for the love of it.

Peggy’s life was a testament to the belief that you are never too old to learn, explore, serve, or love life fully. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, courage, creativity, and deep devotion to family.

Services will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. Services will take place at MKD Funeral Home, located at 6651 Scott Street, Allendale, MI 49401.

Contributions in Peggy’s memory will help support the family with funeral expenses and can be made here - https://www.givesendgo.com/peggykalis

“Give the world your best anyway. For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.”    — Mother Teresa