Phyllis Retzlaff

Phyllis E. Retzlaff passed away peacefully at home on November 30, 2024, just two days shy of her 97th birthday. She had a full life and a strong faith. Phyllis was born on December 2, 1927, in the Town of Omro, the daughter of Elizabeth and Lewis Miller. She graduated from Omro High School in 1945. On June 9, 1949, she married Charles Retzlaff at Grace Lutheran Church in Omro, and they enjoyed 57 wonderful years of marriage.

Throughout her life, Phyllis was employed by Omro Lumber, Northern Propane, and for 28 years at the dental office of Dr. R.C. Zernzach. Beyond her work, she was an exceptional seamstress, a phenomenal cook and baker, created and crocheted countless snowflakes, and crafted many seasonal items. Phyllis actively served her church in various capacities and cherished her time with her family. Later in life, if she wasn't in the raspberry patch or tending to her flowers, she could be found watching Wisconsin sports, mastering crossword or jigsaw puzzles, or enjoying a good book.

Phyllis and Charles hosted A.F.S. students from Denmark, Norway, and Greece. She kept in touch with Anders from Denmark via email, and during one of their trips, they visited him there.

She is survived by her children, Lynn (Ruth) Retzlaff, Alan (Cathy) Retzlaff, and Jill (David) Teal; grandchildren John (Mackenzie) Retzlaff and Mary Retzlaff; and great-grandchild Jeffrey Retzlaff. Phyllis is also survived by her sister Lois (Russell) Stone; brother-in-law Clair Retzlaff; sisters-in-law Dorothy (Merlyn) Lovell and Margaret Retzlaff; and many nieces and nephews.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Charles; her parents; grandsons Jacob and Soren Smith; sister Beverly (LuVern) Korth; brothers-in-law Lyle Retzlaff and Orin (Marian) Retzlaff; and sisters-in-law Grace (Joe) Vowels and Ruth Retzlaff.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Sandy and Erica from Aurora Hospice. In accordance with Phyllis' wishes, there will be no visitation. The funeral service will be held on Friday, Dec. 6th at 10:30 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 720 Jackson Ave, Omro, WI, with Pastor Mark Wenzel officiating. Her final resting place will be at Omro Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established for Grace Lutheran Church-Omro and Carter Memorial Library-Omro.