Peggy J. (Cox) Amadio was born on March 13, 1955, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to William J. Cox and Mary Jeanne (Schierling) Cox. A lifelong Kenoshan, she attended Lincoln Elementary and Lincoln Junior High School. She graduated from Tremper High School in 1973. On May 24, 1980, she married the love of her life, Anthony (Tony) Amadio.Peggy studied art at UW-Parkside and early childhood education at Carthage College. Later in life, she returned to school and earned an associate’s degree in graphic arts from Gateway Technical College. She was a gifted illustrator and painter throughout her life.She had enormous compassion for others and dedicated many years of her life to working with children. For 15 years, Peggy served as a special education teacher’s assistant at various schools within the Kenosha Unified School District. She also taught early childhood education at New Nursery, which was part of St. Joseph’s High School in Kenosha. Over the years, she also worked at Kenosha National Bank, Quality Carriers, and Jacobsen Manufacturing. Before retiring, she spent many years dedicating her creative design skills to the Volunteer Center of Racine.In addition to working full-time and being a full-time mom, Peggy also ran her own arts and crafts business, called “What’s Next?,” for over 15 years with her husband, Tony. Together, they sold her handmade crafts and artwork at various fairs and events throughout Wisconsin.When her daughter was young, Peggy taught religious education at Holy Rosary School and served as a Girl Scouts leader. She volunteered often and showed up to every school and sports event (and there were many!). She was an incredibly devoted and caring parent and saw her role as a mom as the central mission of her life. One of her greatest joys later in life was becoming a grandmother, and she was equally dedicated to her granddaughter, Nina.Peggy and Tony celebrated 45 years of marriage in 2025. Peggy’s exceptional sense of humor, creativity, compassion, and ability to face anything head-on defined who she was. She helped without judgment and stepped in with genuine willingness whenever someone needed her. A lifelong fan of The Who and Motown, she loved live music and comedy (from big concerts to small shows), along with dancing and watching her favorite movies and TV shows with Tony.After her retirement, Peggy found a second home at the Kenosha Senior Center. The friends she made there became like a second family, and she loved creating dozens of funny, customized T-shirts for them and for her family and friends. She found great joy in giving gifts and making others happy.Peggy was officially diagnosed with ALS in 2024 and died from the disease on November 24, 2025. She will be terribly missed by her husband Tony, daughter Abbie, son-in-law Sean (Beatty), and granddaughter Nina, as well as by countless friends, family members, and loved ones.She is preceded in death by her parents and sister (Vicki Hassett). In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Kenosha Senior Center.A celebration of life will be held at Proko Funeral Home on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m.
Condolences
Sheila Beatty
January 8, 2026
We will forever be grateful to Peggy and Tony for raising the wonderful, thoughtful woman that we are blessed to call daughter- and sister-in-law. Rest in peace, Peggy. Sheila and Amanda Beatty
Ted Perroni
January 4, 2026
Peggy was Always the SWEETEST PERSON in the ROOM !!! ALWAYS EASY to TALK TO .SHE WILL BE MISSED !!!I’LL SEND PRAYERS TO THE FAMILY. !!!!
Jessica House
December 20, 2025
I met Peggy at the Kenosha Senior Center and we hit it off from day one. My heart is so sad to stumble across her passing. I will forever remember our time at the center. To her family I'm extremely saddened by your loss and pray for your strength in the coming days ahead.Jessica House
Kathleen Stevens
December 18, 2025
Peggy and I met at Lincoln Elementary and Lincoln junior high. My memories are of a great person. I can remember teenager mischief. I did not know about her health. Thanks to a mutual friend gave me her phone number. We had a chance to text. She did text she no longer talked. My last message was hugs are guiet . I didn't get that hug but I will always remember the wonderful girlfriend i had. Reading her obituary. She did some wonderful things. I never met Tony. He took the time to write me and let me know that Peggy enjoyed my Christmas cards with stories of my kids and grandkids. That made me laugh and cry. Love you, PeggyKathleen Talley Stevens
Terry Snyder
December 6, 2025
Peggy and I became best friends when we both went to Lincoln Elementary school and I was in first grade and she was in kindergarten. I have no memories other than of her being in my life. We lived two blocks away from each other and were always at one another‘s homes. Our parents became good friends because of our friendship.Although I moved away from Kenosha 32 years ago, Peggy and I stayed close throughout the years. When I would visit with my little dog, she always opened up her home to have me as a guest. We had so many good times together and I love her very much. Sending hugs to Tony, Abbie, Sean and Nina. All of you were her world and she loved you all so very much.
Jane Behrman
December 3, 2025
Where do I start?Jean and I have known Peggy since sophomore year of high school. Jean and Peggy lived together on “the farm”In Pleasant Prairie with their dogs and “Leo” the stray dog the protected the property.Many friends frequented thereJean has lots of wonderful memories of that time.I am so grateful for our friendship throughout the years. Peggy was always there for Jean in dedication and friendship,supporting her through her stroke, recovery and all these years.She was the best friend we could ask for.Our hearts go out to Tony, Abby and family. We love you.Rest in Peace Peggy. Jane and Jean
Ann Krulatz Rosmann
November 29, 2025
Sending condolences to Tony, Abbie, Nina, and others. Remembering Peggy from our days enjoying time at her childhood home. I am very sad to hear Peggy was sick since 2024. I will cherish our families memories from the 1960’s. Rest in Peace dear Peggy.
al amadio
November 29, 2025
Peggy and I go back to sophomore year at temper,i new Peggy longer than my brother Tony.I paired them together at my wedding and from there it was those two for life.what a great time I was able to share with Peggy through the years, and will miss her deeply