University mourns Operations Custodial Services employee Peggy Rule

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas community is mourning employee Peggy Rule, who died March 24 at age 60.

Rule was an employee in Operations Custodial Services, having joined KU as a custodian in April 2017, when her buildings were Malott, Haworth and Dole Human Development Center.

In November of that year, she was promoted as an assistant custodial supervisor. Over the years, she mentored custodial crews in JRP, Carruth-O’Leary, Snow, Strong, Wescoe and Budig halls, as well as Watson and Anschutz libraries and the Visitors Center, bringing a “unique energy” to the team.

“Peggy had a natural gift for making people feel valued and respected,” said Becky Shepard, third shift custodial supervisor. “Her presence made the University of Kansas custodial department not just a place to work, but a place where her crew could grow, learn and feel supported.” 

One of Peggy’s most remarkable qualities, Shepard said, was the ability to connect with people, regardless of their role at KU. 

“She was always available to listen, to offer help and to share words of encouragement,” Shepard said.

A celebration of life for Rule will take place April 2 in McLouth.