PHILLIPS, James Leon 1943-2017

PHILLIPS, OTTERBECK, FLIEHLER, DWYER

Posted By: K. L. Kittleson
Date: 4/14/2017 at 20:58:22

James "Jim" Phillips

August 17, 1943 - March 9, 2017

James Leon Phillips, 73, of Cedar Falls, Iowa, passed away at his home on Thursday, March 9th, 2017. He was born on August 17th, 1943, son of Merlin and Irene (Otterbeck) Phillips. Merlin was killed in action during World War II and Irene later married Max Fliehler and together they raised Jim where he attended Anamosa High School graduating with the class of 1961. Jim later attended and graduated from Upper Iowa College and began working for Square D, Collins Radio and later finishing his career with John Deere in Waterloo. Jim was united in marriage to Kathleen (Dwyer) on January 27th, 1968. He and his “sweetheart” had two daughters while still residing in Cedar Rapids.

In years gone by, Jim enjoyed several fishing trips to Canada with family or friends and on one occasion caught the largest walleye for the season from Lake of the Woods, earning him the nickname “Wally Jim”! Mention must be made about his love for his cats and was at their beckon call, getting up with them in the early hours of the morning to care for them. Cars and racing were also a part of his interests, having owned several classics including a '63 Corvette. By far though were Jim's love for his family, treasuring every moment he spent with his wife, kids and grand-kids.

Jim is survived by his wife Kathie of Cedar Falls; two daughters, Gina (Craig) Haan of Cedar Falls and Sara (Dan) Oltrogge of Cedar Falls; three granddaughters, Madison Haan, Bella Oltrogge and Gia Oltrogge; two siblings, Bill (Karen) Fliehler Anamosa and Jeff (Janet) Fliehler of Anamosa; two sister-in-laws, Dorothy Hennick of Cedar Falls and Margaret (Ken) Alberts of Cedar Falls and brother-in-law, Steve Dwyer; Aunt Irma Duncan of Cedar Falls; Uncle Chuck and Aunt Becky Otterbeck of Bonita Springs, Florida and a number of nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and will be missed greatly. May he rest in peace and God bless his soul. A private family celebration will take place at a later date.

Source: Richardson funeral home