Margaret Kailin

MARGARET COOGAN KAILIN, age 96, passed away peacefully on Oct. 24, 2015 at Capitol Lakes Health Center, Madison, after a glorious fulfilling day with children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Known as Maggie, she was born Margaret Marie Coogan, on Dec. 1, 1918 to Eleanor and William Coogan in Watertown, WI, the 13th of seventeen children.

Maggie grew up in Watertown and studied art at Milwaukee State Teacher's College. Her compassion for others ran deep and extended to those far beyond her own circle. She campaigned to aid the elected Second Spanish Republic in the Spanish Civil War. In 1939 she married Clarence Kailin who was wounded fighting with the Abraham Lincoln Brigade. They settled in Madison and raised their family.

Her willingness to stand up for others, even in the face of ignorance and resistance, continued through the years, expressed by her involvement in the Civil Rights movement, the anti-apartheid movement, Madison SOS (Save our Social Security) and many other social justice causes.

Maggie took a stand against racism whenever she saw it, from writing letters to the editor, to going to her children's schools to confront racist behavior by the teachers or racist writings in text books. She believed in community and socialism and was red-baited for her beliefs along with her husband.

Maggie's deep sensitivity enabled her to penetrate to the essence of any situation, mundane or global. She had a sharp wit and great sense of humor. She enjoyed flower gardening and was a gifted writer and artist, rediscovering her talent at sketching portraits at 95. Residents and staff alike treasured her sketches of them. Most important to her, she loved spending time with her family.

Maggie was preceded in death by her parents, and fifteen siblings and by her husband Clarence. She is survived by her sister, Madeline Coogan Prichard; her children John, Laurel, Julie and Susan Kailin; grandchildren Kimanzi and Syovata Edari, Jennifer and Megan Hawkins; and great-grandchildren Desmond Hawkins and Miles Trelevin, Emayu Sellassie-Edari, Solomon Edari and Jasiah, Yazmin, Nialah, Razia and Laila Edari; and great-great-grandchild Nalima Edari.

The family expresses their appreciation to the staff of Capitol Lakes Health Center; Agrace Hospice; and Dr. Irene Hamrick for their devoted care.

A Celebration of Maggie's Life will be held later. Notification will be posted in the Wisconsin State Journal.

Please share your memories of Maggie.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road Madison
(608) 238-3434