Margaret M. Duncan, age 95, of Billings, formerly of Miles City

Margaret Marie Duncan
November 23, 1929 – November 18, 2025

Margaret Marie Duncan passed away peacefully, just a few days shy of her 96th birthday, at Westpark Village retirement center in Billings, Montana. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Margaret lived a long and fulfilling life centered around family, friendship, and community.

Born in Bearcreek, Montana, Margaret was the eldest of five children to Pat and Mayme Sanderson. Her mother was born in Scotland, and Margaret took great pride in her Scottish heritage — a meaningful part of her identity throughout her life, including a memorable family trip to Scotland to trace her roots.

In her early years, the family relocated to Oilmont, Montana, where Margaret graduated from Oilmont High School. She continued her education at Northern Montana College in Havre, earning a degree in medical records. Her career began at Fort Belknap Hospital in Harlem, Montana — a move that also led her to meet the love of her life, Pete Duncan, who was then working for Buttrey Foods in his hometown of Harlem. The two were married in August of 1950 and celebrated their remarkable 75th wedding anniversary this past summer.

Together, Margaret and Pete built a life full of family, laughter, and strong community ties. Pete’s career in the grocery business took them to several towns across Montana — from Harlem to Fort Peck, then Browning, and finally to Miles City in 1962, where he opened a new Buttrey Foods store. There, they planted deep roots and raised their four children.

Margaret joined the staff at Holy Rosary Hospital in Miles City, dedicating over 50 years of service and continuing her work into her 80s. She was admired for her unwavering work ethic, grace, and devotion to both her profession and her family.

In Miles City, Margaret and Pete formed deep, lifelong friendships with a close-knit group of couples. Together, they enjoyed countless social events — from trips and dinner parties at the Town and Country Club, to snowmobiling, bowling, and cheering at sporting events. Margaret was an active member of the Caledonian Society and especially loved the annual Bobby Burns celebration, complete with Scottish dancing. She played bridge, was part of a birthday bunco club, a wine group, and a member of the LAMPS of Holy Rosary Health Care.

An exceptional cook, Margaret’s dinners were always a highlight for family and friends. Her famous butter horn “Grandma Rolls” became a treasured family tradition.

In 1963, Margaret began another tradition that continues to this day — purchasing box seats for the World-Famous Miles City Bucking Horse Sale. Each May, the family still gathers in those very same seats. Margaret loved every aspect of the event: the parade, betting on horses, lunches at the Airport Inn, and large post-rodeo gatherings at their home.

For many years, the Duncans enjoyed their acreage outside of Miles City, with horses and a garden. Their deep Montana roots also led them to Red Lodge, over the hill from Margaret’s birthplace of Bearcreek, where they owned a cabin for over 30 years — a special retreat cherished by family and friends.

In 2023, with great sadness leaving Miles City, Margaret and Pete relocated to Billings to be closer to family and assisted living. The family wishes to thank the compassionate teams at Westpark Village and Billings Clinic for their devoted care and support over the years.

Margaret is survived by her devoted husband of 75 years, Pete; their children: Pat, Mike (Frank Pelletier), Jackie Zawada (Joe), and Jim (Heidi); grandchildren: Chris Zawada (Denise), Callie Zawada-Sowder (Garrett), and Mara Duncan; and great-grandchildren: Cade, Jace, Jax, and Shea. She is also survived by her sister, Jackie Spencer. Margaret will be remembered for her fun-loving spirit, quiet strength, warm hospitality, and the lasting legacy of love and family she leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 23, 2025, (Margaret’s birthday) at Westpark Village lower-level reception area, 2351 Soloman Avenue, Billings, MT 59102. A reception will follow.

The family welcomes donations in memory of Margaret to the Duncan Family Endowment at Billings Clinic Foundation.

Service Schedule

Celebration of Life

3:00 p.m.

Sunday November 23, 2025

Westpark Village Lower Level Reception

2351 Soloman Avenue

Billings, Montana 59102

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