The Gannon Sisters

"We're not only sisters, we're friends."

"My mother made me swear that I would behave myself at all times and not get into any arguments. After all we are sisters you know," said Cassie (better known as Red) Gannon prompting a shared laugh with her sister Peggy.

They were remembering when Peggy told Cassie about a job opening in the bookkeeping department of Consumers Produce, where Peggy had been working for about two years.

That was almost 17 years ago and the sisters have been working side by side ever since. With only a two-inch wall between them Red says they are a built in support system for each other. "I always says hey Peg what bout this, or she ask me a question, we try to help each other out," says Red.

It doesn't take long being around Peggy and Red to realize the depth of affection and respect they have for each other. Red is clearly the 'character,' kept in check by the more tranquil Peggy. Red is quick to point out in her good natured way the year and a half more life experience Peggy has enjoyed. While they are quick to kid one another both sisters say they get along tremendously.

"We're not only sisters, we're friends," says Red. "When we were younger we weren't," Peggy reminds her. "Oh no, we're sisters! We fought over everything, don't touch me, you're too close, this is my side of the room," Red remembered smiling. But the sibling rivalry has mellowed into accommodating graciousness reserved only for the best of friends.

Their coworkers say Peggy and Red have a wonderful way about them that is enjoyed by everyone they come in contact with. Whether it's sharing a smile, or stepping in to help out a coworker in a crunch, the sisters are there.

"Everyone is family here," say Red. "You're made to feel a part of the family and your family is made to feel important. No matter what happens family comes first. Especially if you have troubles."

The sisters remember with fondness Thelma Siger (Alan's mother) taking care of them like her own children when both their parents became ill at the same time. "She even wanted to stay with us the whole night but I said no, that's okay. It's just that type of thing, they always worry about you," Peggy says.

Outside their jobs together at Consumers Produce, the Gannon sisters share a newly purchased home in Bethel Park. A home with a big yard and elbow room. "She has a suite at one end of the house and I have mine," says Peggy. " We love it. It's beautiful, nice and quiet, with bunny rabbits, squirrels, and the birds. It's very nice."

Peggy and Red remain members of St. Stephen Parish in Hazelwood, and beam when they talk about their other big job these days. "We take care of our little cousin, we are the principal baby-sitters," says Red. "He had his first sleep over at our place," points out Peggy. Eddie is only four years old but Red says, "he wears you out with a million questions." But the sisters agree it's a great way to get worn out they would not consider trading.

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