Peggy Ann Douglas (nee Burgdorff), an influential Wayzata community leader and dedicated social worker, passed away suddenly on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the age of 81.
Born on December 14, 1942, in Madison, Wisconsin, Peggy was the daughter of Harold and Dorothy (Cnare) Burgdorff.
She excelled academically, graduating from West High School in 1961 and earning a degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Peggy began her career as a social worker in Chicago, where she met her husband, John Douglas.
The couple moved to St. Louis for John’s career in the steel industry before settling in Orono, Minnesota, in 1972.
Elizabeth Ann joined them in 1976 and Andrew in 1978 through the Children’s Home Society, where Peggy ultimately served as a Member of the Board for over 14 years.
In 1989, Peggy re-entered the workforce as Wayzata’s first Crime Prevention Coordinator for the Police Department.
That same year, she became the Executive Director of the Wayzata Chamber of Commerce, significantly impacting the local business community.
She retired briefly to work as a realtor but returned to lead the Chamber from 2006 to 2012.
Peggy was instrumental in the success of community events like the Chilly Open and James J. Hill Days and was named “Wayzata’s Person of the Year” in 2012.
A tireless community volunteer, Peggy was active in the Wayzata Planning Commission, the Rotary Club, and the Junior League.
She was a member of Wayzata Community Church for over 50 years, serving as Head Usher and participating in various committees.
Peggy also co-founded Interfaith Outreach Community Partners and helped establish the local Meals on Wheels program.
Wayzata Mayor Johanna Mouton issued a statement at a recent City Council meeting, “Peggy was simply the best, aside from being a friendly, warm, and caring person, she was an exceptional leader who served our Planning Commission for the past 6 years, and various other boards, and as a dedicated Wayzata Rotarian. Most notably Peggy played a pivotal role in shaping the Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce, serving as president and executive director for many years.”
Peggy was known for her vibrant social life, participating in three book clubs, neighborhood gatherings, and regular walks along Lake Minnetonka.
She was a world traveler, often accompanied by her grandsons, Damion and Winter Douglas, whom she adored.
Peggy is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Douglas, her son, Andrew Douglas, and her grandsons. and was predeceased by her parents and her husband, John.
A Celebration of Life was held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Wayzata Community Church, followed by a reception at Wayzata Country Club.
