Vickie A. Phenis

Vickie was born on October 21, 1952 and died after 61 years of life at 4:48AM on December 29, 2013. She passed away in the same manner that she lived life, fighting. She leaves behind two living children and grandchildren along with numerous family members who were fortunate to have known her. She will be laid to rest next to her beautiful daughter, Paige, who was a child when she passed away. Vickie held Paige’s memory firmly in her heart and she deeply loved all of her children. During her last days, she was so thankful for the moments that she got to spend with her kids.

Vickie was an amazing daughter and sister and had a tremendous personality. Her family and friends loved her deeply. She was a fighter and she had a great sense of humor. Even during her last days while she was in tremendous pain, she was making jokes. She was a strong, adventurous person even as a child. Her parents, Ernie and Lucille, fondly recalled her courage and determination when learning to water ski with her father as a child. Her parents noted that she was intelligent and able to quickly learn. They also remembered how generous she was. Her brother noted that she was probably the smartest out of all of the kids. It seemed like she was always reading something.

Her adventurousness led to frequent traveling. She lived in a number of places and her family and friends were fortunate to be involved in some of her adventures. She kept life interesting for all of us. I’m sure all of us have some great stories thanks to Vickie. It is really sad that our lives will be a little less adventurous without her. Regarding her strength, she was a strong, independent woman who raised her children as a single mother. She exhibited her strength all the way to her last breath. She accepted the diagnosis of cancer along with her shortened lifespan. She was so strong. She stated that she was alright with dying but was going to fight to stay with her family as long as possible. And she did. Even though every breath that she took her last day on Earth resulted in a great deal of pain, she fought to live. We hope that she heard us during her last hours and knows how deeply we loved her. We are all better for having known her and are thankful for the privilege of being a part of her life. Vickie, we hope you find Paige waiting for you on a beach with 70 degree water maybe with some cabana men. Although we are saying goodbye today, you will always be in our memories. We will miss you more than you know.