Margaret “Peg/Peggy” Catherine Ernst, 77, of Cranberry Township, passed away Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at UPMC Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh, after a hard-fought 15 year battle with breast cancer.

She was born Aug. 8, 1945, in Lawrenceville, to the late Charles Joseph and Ellen (McKenzie) Ernst.

Her journey through life was a vibrant tapestry of experiences, which always kept Peg engaged physically and mentally. Within the family, Peg was affectionately known as “the fun aunt” — a cherished title she fully embraced.

Her extraordinary talent for fixing anything became her magical touch, endearing her to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She spent countless hours supporting her closest friends at the Syria Shrine Temple, where she was known to lend a hand well before it was even needed.

She found her calling as a bus aide supporting children with disabilities on their way to and from school. The pride she felt for those children was immeasurable, and the love and impact she left on their lives will forever be cherished. Peg will always be remembered for her steadfast friendship, her unwavering love and the legacy she leaves in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Peg’s very close friend said it best when she said “Peg is always the solution and never the problem.”

Peg is survived by her siblings, Ellen Wharrey, of Ohio, Robert Ernst, of Pennsylvania, James Ernst, of New Mexico and Carol Hilliard, of Pennsylvania; three generations of nieces and nephews; and many very dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her aunt, Anna Ernst; niece, Patty Wharrey; and nephews, John Ernst and Donnie Ernst.

ERNST — A celebration of life for Margaret Catherine Ernst, who died Tuesday, July 18, 2023, will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, at the Syria Shrine Temple, 1877 Shriners Way, Cheswick, Pa. Please respond with expected attendance by Aug. 30, 2023, to pegslifecelebration@gmail.com. Also, please share interest in speaking at the celebration and any pictures to this email.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to the Shriners Hospitals for Children or your local American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are under the direction of YOUNG FUNERAL HOME, 127 W. Jefferson St., Butler.

For more information, go to www.youngfuneralhomes.com.

To view this obituary online, please visit www.cranberryeagle.com.