Margaret “Peggy” Ruth Cianciola

After a protracted battle with breast cancer, Margaret “Peggy” Ruth Cianciola died on June 4th, 2018, in Phoenix, AZ, at the age of 63. She leaves behind her husband, Nate Cianciola; her daughter, Natalie Cianciola; and her son, Nicholas Cianciola. Peggy also leaves behind two energetic grandkids, Giada Belle and Vincenzo Joseph Cianciola.

Peggy was born on February 21st, 1955, in Spokane, WA, to father Bernard Leon Murphy Jr. and mother Bettie Ruth, who both predeceased her. She grew up in a large, Irish family with seven sisters, two brothers, and numerous nieces and nephews around the country. Peggy married upstate New York native, Natale “Nate” Joseph Cianciola, on July 8th, 1979.

In college, she enrolled in a bowling class, and the rest is history. Driven and passionate, she dedicated herself to both the sport of bowling and its promotion. Yet, she was more than just a bowling enthusiast. Her heart also held a special place for her grandkids, Days of Our Lives, romance novels, and collecting Santa Claus figurines.

During the late 1980s, Peggy embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on the world of bowling. She introduced her children to the sport, and her passion for it led her to volunteer as the coach of the YABA youth leagues on Saturday mornings at what was then known as Fair Lanes Deer Valley. Peggy's coaching prowess, boundless enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication cultivated not only good sportsmanship but also a profound love for bowling among the countless young individuals who graced her program over the years.

In 1995, Peggy assumed the role of Assistant General Manager at AMF Deer Valley Lanes, where a unique phenomenon unfolded. Many of the young bowlers she had mentored seamlessly transitioned into becoming her co-workers. This remarkable integration into the workforce forged lasting bonds and cemented a formidable and enduring team at the center.

Beyond her duties at Deer Valley, Peggy was a respected presence in various local bowling associations, including the AWBW (Arizona Women's Bowling Writers Association), YABA (Youth American Bowling Alliance), and PWBA (Phoenix Women’s Bowling Association). Her accolades include the prestigious Arizona Women’s Bowling Writers Millie Kraft Award, Writing Award, and Projects Award, as well as the esteemed Dorothy Rowe Award. Peggy's service to the sport was further celebrated with the President’s Award for Outstanding Service from the AWBA, along with the Peggy Lazovich Service Award, PWBA Service Award, and Secretary Award.

Peggy was not only skilled at recruiting employees but also had a knack for inspiring people to join bowling leagues, resulting in enduring friendships. Those fortunate enough to be in her inner circle affectionately referred to her as "Mother Duck" for her role in rallying bowlers from Deer Valley to participate in everything from local tournaments to national events. In return, Peggy lovingly called these individuals her cherished "peeps."

In 2011, Peggy stood alongside her beloved "peeps" as the USBC Women’s Championships recognized her exceptional 25-year commitment to the sport. Then, in 2016, surrounded by several teams she had personally united, composed of her cherished "peeps," Peggy received the prestigious 30-Year Participation Award from the USBC Championships, a testament to her enduring legacy in the world of bowling.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016, she remained dedicated to the sport of bowling as league secretary of multiple leagues and director of the annual Arizona 600 Club tournament. On Monday, May 28th, 2018, Peggy was inducted into the Metro Phoenix USBC Bowling Hall of Fame for Meritorious Service. She remained a brave, iron-willed woman, even throughout her final months.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Margaret “Peggy” Cianciola was held on July 7, 2018, from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm at AMF Deer Valley, 2902 West Thunderbird Road, Phoenix, AZ 85053.

In honor of Peggy’s memory, the family invites contributions to the Peggy Cianciola Memorial Scholarship. Your support helps keep her legacy alive by funding scholarships for youth bowlers.