Phyllis Wheeler Bunkers, 98, formerly of Dell Rapids, South Dakota, passed away in Brookings at Brookview Manor on February 8, 2020 surrounded by her loving family. Phyllis was born on December 19,1921 to Charles and Hulda (Krell) Wheeler in Brookings, SD.
Due to current health concerns associated with COVID-19, the memorial mass for Phyllis Bunker will be postponed until the fall.
Phyllis grew up on the family farm near Brookings, attended Brookings country school and graduated from Brookings High School. She was chosen to be Homecoming Queen in her senior year and was also presented with DAR award. She loved music and enjoyed singing, playing the violin, piano and harmonica.
Following high school graduation, Phyllis moved to Port of Stockton, CA working in the office of US Army Transportation. She later transferred to SDSU and worked for ASTP Army Division. Phyllis was a graduate of SDSU and very proud of her alma mater.
June 14, 1946, she was joined in marriage to Vincent Bunkers at St Mary Church in Dell Rapids, SD. The couple farmed in the Dell Rapids area before moving to Alexandria, MN. They owned and operated a large summer resort on beautiful Lake Miltona. After a number of years in Minnesota, they returned to Dell Rapids. Phyllis returned to the workforce as a legal secretary for a local law firm and later retired after 20 years. She was very devoted in her Christian faith serving her church as a member of Altar Society, Catholic Daughters and volunteering for many years at Padre's. She was also involved in the American Legion Auxiliary and Hospital Auxiliary.
Phyllis loved interacting with people of all ages especially children. Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were most precious in her life. She was their greatest cheerleader, attending numerous academic and sporting events. She was a kind, patient and loving mother. Phyllis was a very special person and will be greatly missed by her loving family.
Surviving this incredible woman are her children, Sharon (Randy) Ostraat, Buckeye, AZ, Mary (Mike) Campbell, Brandon, SD, Steve (Loreen) Bunkers, Brookings, SD and Anne (Gary) Schwartz, Renner, SD as well as eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Preceding her in death were her husband, parents, three sisters, one brother and many dear friends.
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