SPRINGFIELD - Marjorie "Marge" Lou Chidster died at the age of 92 on March 22, 2023.

Marge was born August 5, 1930 in Springfield to William Franklin and Lula (Welker) Tate.

After graduating from Modesto High School, she went to work for Allis-Chalmers Manufacturing Company. She married Thomas Wayne Chidster in Piggott, Arkansas on November 17, 1951. Marge was a stay-at -home mom until becoming a bookkeeper for Frye Williamson Press, Inc., where she worked until her retirement in 2000.

Marge was a member of Springfield First United Methodist Church, Sangamon County Association for Community and Home Education, Jerome Lincoln Trail Capital Unit, and the Independent Order of Forester #1329.

Marge was renowned for her cooking. At family reunions she was requested to bring her "prized" deviled eggs and chicken and noodles. During the holidays her secret recipe peanut brittle and cranberry sauce were a big hit. She enjoyed playing bingo and cards with friends and family. Marge was known for her green thumb and nurtured many African violets which she shared with others. She had a morning ritual of coffee and cookies with her grand dog, Kiska, a black Labrador.

Marge is survived by her daughter, Sue Zaleski (Iowa City, Iowa) and her partner, Kevin Watts (North Liberty, Iowa); a sister, Carrol and husband, Stuart (Stu) Miller of Loami, IL. Over 70 family members called her aunt, great-aunt, great-great aunt or great-great-great aunt. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Wayne; brothers, John and Donald Tate; son-in-law, Tony Zaleski; nephew, Donny Tate and niece; Paula Krone

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 12 p.m. Saturday, March 25, 2023, at Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Roger Grimmett officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Park.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Safe Haven Hospice for the excellent care provided to Marge.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Animal Protective League or Springfield First United Methodist Church.