Margaret Florence Hjersman (nee dellaVedowa) was born in Oakland on December 14, 1922. Her father was renowned for his craft and ability as a sign painter. His was the only sign shop to stay open in this area during the depression. He treated his employees with respect; other craftsmen still know his name.

Margaret's high school years were a pleasure: high grades, school newspaper editor (when she had children, she taught them editing marks as she reviewed their homework), graduated valedictorian. She loved her two older siblings. Her brother introduced her to Roy, her future husband, while sailing on Lake Merritt.

She left CAL to marry Roy and they took the train to Army Camp Crowder in Neosho, Missouri. She trained and served as a voluteer nurse in 1943. They returned to Oakland, moved to Walnut Creek, then Lafayette to a warm house on the hilltop.

After moving to Walnut Creek, an advertisement caught her attention. As a result, she was a chauffeur for the first United Nations meeting in San Francisco and felt honored to be a part of this history. Luckily, she wrote this story before her major stroke in 2003, while trying to find other participants.

She raised four children in the burst of Contra Costa County growth. UC offered homemaking workshops and the neighborhood Home Group was born in the 1950s and continues to this day.

Her kids kept her busy with scouts, PTA, and the usual growing up activities. She said many times she wanted to return to CAL. Once the children left, she helped Roy with his business, joined the Soroptomists and served as president. She participated in Rotary Anns, Professional Women's Society and other groups. And...she returned to CAL and graduated at age 70.

Margaret was an avid traveler and she loved to read. These plus the international aspect of her home prompted three of her kids to work overseas with her full support. She and Roy traveled to see their new places. She hosted many meetings in her home: social gatherings, bridge club, Home Group, PTA guests and any way she could be hospitable. Her life was based on her children and then community service. Roy died in 2005 after 62 years of marriage.

Her spirit and sense of humor shined through even in the hospital. Family members had private times with her and Margaret passed away surrounded by her family.