Margaret Susan (Allard) Bojanowski, age 45, passed away tragically of natural causes at her home on Sunday, December 14, 2025, in Middlebury, Vt. Margaret’s life was defined by compassion, strength and her fierce commitment as a mother, wife, sister, niece, friend and lifelong horsewoman. Her love for family and horses was the cornerstone of her life and career. Margaret was an enduring champion of all things equestrian and a tireless educator and cheerleader for riders of all ages. She brought wisdom, patience and grace to every interaction — whether mentoring a young rider, tending to a horse in need or quietly supporting others behind the scenes.
Margaret grew up in South Burlington and went on to graduate from Alfred University. Her early career started at horse farms in Virginia, followed by teaching and training in horse barns at Cornell University, where she met her husband, Andy. Together they moved to southern Oregon, where they managed a horse farm, before moving back to Vermont, where their daughter, Nova, was born in 2010. As a family they found great pleasure in building their life at Eddy Farm. Andy and Margaret were married in the South Meadow and hosted countless celebrations and community events throughout the years. Margaret was a devoted mother and found true joy watching Nova in the saddle and on the ice. Nova was the light of her life and carries her spirit.
To all who knew her, Margaret was made for Eddy Farm, seemingly handpicked by Doris Eddy herself. Margaret immediately became the farm’s heart and soul, the thread that connected all members of the community. She cared very deeply for the farm horses and loved and knew each one as if it were her own. She always put the horses’ comfort and care first and went to great lengths to ensure an exceptional quality of life for all of them. She was an outstanding teacher and mentor, bringing together people of all ages, capabilities and backgrounds on the farm. Margaret could meet people where they were and especially found great joy in teaching therapeutic lessons to members of the Counseling Service of Addison County. She also delighted in watching her “lesson kids” compete at local events, whether it was lead line or three-foot fences. The impact she had on so many people is awe-inspiring and a testament to the kind, brilliant teacher that she was. One of her earliest students, Alicia Odell, became her dearest friend and assistant farm manager. Together, Margaret and Alicia worked tirelessly to make improvements to the farm facilities and lesson programs. The legacy of their partnership is apparent in the high-quality instruction and top-notch horse care, which are hallmarks of Eddy Farm. Margaret would be so proud to know Alicia will carry on the torch as farm manager.
Margaret is survived by husband Andrew D. Bojanowski and daughter Nova Rose Bojanowski of Middlebury, Vt.; brother Gregory Allard and partner Kathleen Stutzman of Waterbury, Vt.; aunts Susan (Towne) Schaefer of Vergennes, Vt.; Sandra Towne of Randolph, Va.; Abigail (Towne) Vietze and Robert of Warren, Vt.; uncle Makey Towne and Ellen of Breckenridge, Colo.; uncle Mike Allard of Bennington, Vt.; Linda Allard of Bennington, Vt.; Anita and husband Jim Frechette of Bennington, Vt.; in-laws David and Sandy Bojanowski of Ithaca, N.Y.; sisters-in-law Julie Bojanowski of Ithaca, N.Y., and Stephanie Bojanowski of Buffalo, N.Y.; and many cousins.
Margaret was predeceased by her mother, Libby Towne, in 2011; her father, Mark Allard, in 2023; her dog Jon-Jon; and her horse Caruso.
A memorial celebration of her life is being planned for January 10, 2026, 12 noon, at the American Legion in Middlebury.
Interment will be arranged privately.
Donations in memory of Margaret may be made to Eddy Farm School for Horse and Rider (1815 South St. Extension, Middlebury, VT 05753, or the Counseling Service of Addison County (89 Main St., Middlebury, VT 05753.