Obituary of Phyllis Jean Van Roekel

Phyllis J. Van Roekel, the daughter of Clovy D. and Juanita J. (Dixon) Stewart, was born March 15, 1927 in Newton, Iowa.  She graduated from Unionville High School in Unionville, Missouri.

On June 29, 1947 Phyllis was united in marriage with Dwain Eldon Van Roekel in Unionville.  Phyllis and Dwain enjoyed over 70 years of marriage together.  She devoted her life to her husband and family.  Phyllis had been a Maytag employee and was a longtime member of the Congregational United Church of Christ in Newton.  She enjoyed sewing, knitting, gardening but most of all loved speaking about times with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Phyllis passed away on Wednesday, November 21, 2018.  She was 91 years old.  Phyllis was preceded in death, by her husband Dwain, on April 12, 2018.

Those left to honor Phyllis’ memory include her daughter, Patti (Steve) Davis; her son, Eric (Maria) Van Roekel; her grandchildren, Staci (Phillip) Cox, Alison (Eric) Stewart, Chad Van Roekel; her great grandsons, Xander and Zyler Cox; and her great granddaughters, Gabbi and Gemma Stewart.  

Phyllis' wishes of having a private family service will be honored.  Any memorials may be offered to the ARL in Newton and the BPOE, Elks Lodge Scholarship Fund in Newton and may be left at the Pence ~ Reese Funeral Home in Newton.