Margaret L. Mugartegui

Margaret Lucille Wilkins Mugartegui (Marge) beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away on June 30, 2024, at the age of 90.

Marge was born on September 30, 1933, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in the city of Orange, California.

She is survived by her husband of 69 years Frank, sons Greg (Janice Lewis), Steve, and Joe (Pam Mizukami), granddaughters Anna Ruggiero (Devaron) and Erin Palumbo (Nick), and great-grandchildren Grace and Wyatt Palumbo.

Marge was predeceased by parents Ray and Irene Wilkins, siblings Charlene, Gerald, Joseph, and Virginia. She is survived by brothers Richard of South Carolina, Ed (Martha) of Idaho, and Don (Sharon) of Massachusetts, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Marge moved with the Wilkins family to Sacramento in 1941, eventually settling in the family home on K Street across from Sutter’s Fort. Marge graduated from St. Francis Elementary School and High School near their K Street home. She briefly attended Loretto Heights College in Denver, Colorado.

Marge may have been the Sacramento Kings biggest fan. She and Frank were Kings season ticket holders for over 30 years from their inaugural 1985 season until after the team’s move to the Golden One Center. For most of that period, Marge attended nearly every home game. Once a game was over, she would return home and often watch her television taping of the game until early in the morning.

During the late 1950’s and 1960’s, Marge enjoyed trips to her parents’ lakeview cabin in South Lake Tahoe. She loved her time there with family at the beautiful property, the beach, and in her Father’s Chris Caft boat.

Beginning in the early 1970’s, Marge and Frank took an annual summer vacation to Santa Cruz, California. For over 50 years, they spent up to 3 weeks with a host of other Sacramentans, mostly in the Seabright area. Marge loved spending time with her family and new and old friends in Santa Cruz.

Marge was a strong supporter of Sacred Heart Parish and School, Christian Brothers High School, and St. Francis High School. While her sons were in school, she volunteered with the Sacred Heart Mother’s Club, CB Parents Guild, as well as other organizations. Marge was a devoted supporter and always in attendance for her son’s sports events at Sacred Heart, American Little League, East Sacramento Babe Ruth, Christian Brothers, and Sacramento City College.

In December of 2011, Marge survived a massive stroke. The stroke impacted her ability to talk (Aphasia) and limited her mobility. Marge worked hard in the subsequent years to recapture some speech and improve her physical abilities. It was truly a testament to her internal strength and fortitude as well as her strong faith. 

The family would like to thank and acknowledge Sulieti (Suli) Kaufusi. Suli is truly an angel and has provided loving care and companionship to Marge for the last eight years. The family also wishes to recognize and thank Christine Marti for her wonderful care of Marge during 2024.

A funeral service will be held on Friday July 12 at 10:00 am at Sacred Heart Church, located at 1040 39th Street in Sacramento 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Marge’s honor can be made to Sacred Heart, St. Francis High School, Christian Brothers High School or the charity of your choice.