EHLERT, Phyllis A. (1935-2017)

EHLERT

Posted By: Karon Velau (email)
Date: 1/28/2019 at 20:16:34

Phyllis Ann Ehlert
(November 16, 1935 - September 15, 2017)

Phyllis Ann Ehlert (nee Fickess) loving wife, mother, and friend to many, left this world to be with her Lord and the other angels in heaven on Friday, September 15th after a lengthy illness. She was in her home wrapped in the comfort and love of her family when she took her last earthly journey. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2017 at Mount Calvary Lutheran church, 2214 East 2nd Ave, Indianola, Iowa.
Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. and service will start at 11:00 a.m. A light lunch will be served following the service.
Born in Cedar Falls, Iowa to Clarence Wesley and Anita Beatrice Fickess, Phyllis lived a full life, overcoming many challenges. She married Paul Ehlert in 1952 and they celebrated their 65th anniversary in July. Together they raised six children through times both easy and hard, always providing for them, often through the grace of God. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and generosity.
Phyllis was a pillar of strength to her family and a benefactor to all those who came into her life’s orbit. She had a big heart and would share whatever she could with those in need, even when there was little to share. Phyllis faithfully corresponded with more than 100 pen pals during her later years, sharing in their joys and sorrows and offering support and friendship. She opened her heart and home to all, regardless of their circumstances and taught her children that joy comes from giving and serving.
She always did whatever she could to help meet her family’s needs, from baking and selling bread, doing laundry and ironing clothes, to working in manufacturing and meat packing plants alongside men (who were often paid more for doing less of the same work). She continued to serve others in her later years when she worked as a home health aide and served with Paul as a faithful volunteer for Helping Hand and their church in Indianola. She demonstrated to all around her the importance of working for what you want and need and that it is a blessing to give to those less fortunate.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her son, Timothy, and is survived by her husband Paul of the home, brother Robert Fickess (Wilma) of Osage, Iowa, children Mark (Karen) of Columbia, Missouri, Wesley and Brian (Jan) of Des Moines, Jennifer Ohnemus (Jerry) of Carlisle, Melissa of Indianola, daughter-in-law Kim of Great Falls, Montana, 11 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, and a large church family at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Indianola.
The family wishes to express our sincere thank you to all the friends and church members who shared their love and support during Phyllis’s last months and to the medical and hospice workers who provided care and emotional support to her and all family members.
Condolences may be sent to Overton’s Funeral home in Indianola, Iowa (www.overtonfunerals.com). Phyllis asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church for the Joshua Fund.This memorial is provided by Overton Funeral Home, 501 West Ashland Ave., Indianola, Iowa, http://www.overtonfuneral.com/