Margaret M. Moroz, 66, rose from humble roots to Comcast Spectacor executive

Margaret Mary Moroz, 66, of Philadelphia, a former usher at the Spectrum who rose to become vice president of a creative marketing group for Comcast Spectacor, died Saturday, Sept. 29, of breast cancer at her daughter's home in Abington.

Mrs. Moroz started her career in 1976, showing ticket holders to their seats at the Spectrum in South Philadelphia's sports complex. She later worked closely with Ed Snider, chairman of Comcast Spectacor, and as the Snider family expanded its business portfolio, she saw the need for an in-house advertising department.

In response, she established the 3601 Creative Group, and became a key figure behind promotions involving the opening of the Wells Fargo Center, the closing of the Spectrum, and special events featuring the Philadelphia Flyers, 76ers, Wings, Phantoms and the Soul, Comcast Spectacor said in a statement.

The creative division handled electronic, video, audio, and print advertising, and in addition, planned and coordinated signage and promotional materials for two national political conventions held at the center.

Known as "Peggy," Mrs. Moroz was the creative group's vice president until retiring in 2016.

"Peggy was a woman of dignity and grace," said Shawn Tilger, executive vice president and CEO of the Flyers. "She was a leader that did a great job of creating other leaders. She was a model teammate. She was very creative, a fantastic problem solver, and always happy to collaborate."

In 2006, the National Sports Forum, an organization of sports business professionals, nominated the 3601 Creative Group as a finalist in its annual advertising competition under the "Best Television" category. The commercial for which the group was cited was called "Back Where We Belong." It referenced returning to NHL ice hockey after the 2004-2005 season that was not played due to a labor dispute.

"It's an honor to be recognized amongst so many of our peers throughout the industry," Mrs. Moroz told the National Sports Forum for a story on the forum's website.

"She was very proud to be part of the Flyers organization," said her son, Marc Moroz. "Her funeral is going to be all in black and orange."

Mrs. Moroz started from humble roots and advanced by hard work, smarts, and determination.

"She went to school at night while taking care of kids and working full time," her son said. "She earned a lot of respect. She really did well for herself, with very little to start. In the early days, she didn't have a car. She got around by bus to her appointments."

Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of John M. Tarde Jr. and Elizabeth C. Volk Vollmer. She graduated from Hallahan Catholic Girls' High School and earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Temple University.

In 1973, Mrs. Moroz married Bohdan "Bo" Moroz, whom she met in grade school. "Peggy was wonderful to everyone she knew," he said.

The couple had two children and raised them in Fishtown and later, Juniata. "She gave every bit of herself to provide them with a better life than she had," her son said.

Mrs. Moroz was devoted to her large, extended family. She coordinated all family vacations and served as a pillar of support in times of trouble. She also valued her vast circle of friends with whom she traveled.

She was thrilled when she became a grandmother, her son said.

"She spoiled them with gifts, got them into special events at the Wachovia Center and the Spectrum, and helped them with homework," her son said.

In addition to her husband, son, and nine grandchildren, she is survived by a daughter Heather Buday; and a sister. A brother and sister died earlier.

A viewing from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4, will be followed by another viewing starting at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 5. at Galzerano Funeral Home, 9304 Old Bustleton Ave., Philadelphia. An 11:30 a.m. funeral Mass on Friday will be said at the Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 9220 Old Bustleton Ave. Burial will be in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Philadelphia.

Memorial donations can be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation through https://www.bcrf.org/.