Peggy Jean Cooper, 82 of Fremont, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to so many, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family; one day shy of her 83rd birthday.
Peggy was born on March 31, 1943, in Hamburg, Iowa, to Charles “Gib” and Eunice (Stewart) Withrow. Peggy attended school and graduated from Sidney, Iowa, in 1961. Peggy worked different jobs, but the one she excelled at was bookkeeping and was most of her employment. Big River Construction, Bohl’s Plumbing and Heating, Hatten Plumbing and Heating, Branch Officer/Administrator at Edward D. Jones, Bookkeeper at Salem Lutheran Church and Schweser’s. Peggy lived a life defined by faith, kindness, strength, and devotion to her family. She was the heart of her home—a loving wife to John, with whom she shared 32 years of marriage filled with laughter, partnership, and unwavering support.
As a mother, Peggy was endlessly nurturing, patient, and proud. She poured her heart into raising her girls, Chrissy and Susan, always encouraging them to be honest, hardworking, kind, resilient, and true to themselves. One of her greatest joys came from being a grandmother, and she cherished every moment spent with Lauren Nicole. Whether through hugs, stories, special traditions, or simple time together, she made each of them feel deeply loved. Peggy had a love for cooking, volunteering at church and teaching bible study, and crafting; her presence brought comfort and warmth wherever she went. She will be remembered for her strong faith, sense of humor, generous heart, and for always putting others before herself.
Peggy is survived by her loving husband John of Fremont; her children Chrissy Shefferd (husband Bruce), Susan Shoemaker (husband Robert); her granddaughter Lauren Shoemaker, all of Nebraska City; and many other extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her brother James Withrow, father, Charles “Gib” Withrow and mother, Eunice Withrow.
Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the beautiful life Peggy lived and the legacy of love she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and forever remembered. Services will be at 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 9th at First Covenant Church (201 North 90th Street) in Omaha with Pastor Greg Applequist officiating. There will be a remembrance reception immediately after the service.
A private family inurnment will be held at Wyuka Cemetery in Nebraska City at later date.
Memorials may be directed to the family for future designation.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com or www.gudefuneralhomes.com