After a well-lived life, long-time Killington Vermont resident Margaret “Omi” Schiessl passed away at age 88 on March 4, 2024, in Parrish, Florida.
Schiessl’s testament in life was to spread love to her family and friends. She was a beloved wife, mother, Oma, sister, and friend born on Jan. 2, 1936, in Nürtingen, Germany. She was the third child of Elise and Alfred Aichele, and a sister to her three brothers Alfred, Carl, and Walter. From a young age, she was drawn towards adventure, fun, and nature. She was never afraid to voice her mind and lend a helping hand to those around her. Her laugh was contagious, her smile infectious.
In 1962, Margaret married Karl Schiessl whom she met in Chester, Connecticut. Together they embarked on a journey filled with love and adventure throughout the mountains of Killington, Vermont, the cobblestone streets of Bruck, Germany, and the soft white sands of Bradenton, Florida. They decided to raise their daughter Kristin in the Green Mountains starting in the Brindlehof, which then turned into building their beloved ski lodge, Chalet Kristin, later renamed The Bear Mountain Inn where she lived for 47 years.
Many of her years in Killington consisted of skiing, dancing at the Wobbly Barn, playing tennis, swimming in Timberlake, and caring for the Bear Mountain Inn, which housed skiers from around the world. She was cherished as a grandmother by her granddaughter Heidi and fondly known as “Omi” by many of her friends.
Margaret is survived by her daughter Kristin and granddaughter Heidi. A celebration of life for Margaret Schiessl will be held on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at 11 a.m., at Our Lady of the Mountains Church, in Killington. Reception to follow at the Summit Lodge.
The loss of Omi leaves a void in many of the hearts of her loved ones, though her legacy of love, compassion, and empathy will continue to inspire and guide those who have had the pleasure of crossing paths with her. Omi’s advice, “Don’t take any wooden nickels!”
