Phyllis Ellen Soderlund

Our mom, Phyllis Ellen Soderlund, aged 77, passed away peacefully on December 12th, 2025. She was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on August 31st, 1948, to Martin and Gloria Merilson. Raised in Margate City, New Jersey, she had one brother, Ivan, who preceded her in death. She attended Atlantic City High School and went on to graduate from now Rowan University with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education.

Afterward, she met her husband, Gunnar, an aerospace engineer, in Atlantic City. A year later, they moved to California to be married in 1971.

While living in West Los Angeles, she applied and became the executive secretary to the Consul General of South Korea at their consulate in Los Angeles. She also volunteered at Saint John's Hospital in Santa Monica.

She was the life of every party, funny as can be, vibrant, and a fashionista who loved to dress up. She had a unique ability to communicate and connect with almost anyone. This enabled her to have lifelong friendships, and those who knew her were as thankful for the same.

She and her hubby traveled extensively through Europe. They then moved to Simi Valley, CA, in 1980 to start a family. At the age of thirty-six, she gave birth to Christopher Andrew. Twenty-two months later, she gave birth to Torre Michael.

They were her heart, and she doted on them while instilling a love of learning and giving back to the community. She was a member of the Simi Valley Community Council for many years and served as vice president one year.

She was a member of the Coffee Cups bowling team, where her team won quite a few championships. With her impeccable taste in art and fashion, she helped open and run an art gallery at the Janss Mall in Thousand Oaks, CA. As her sons grew up, she substituted at Pinecrest School, teaching K-6th grade, and loved it.

Both her sons married the love of their lives: Christopher to Julianna and Torre to Zohal. They had her granddaughters, Alexandria and Olivia, and grandson Kyan. Her grandchildren became the love of her life. She had many sleepovers with the girls, spoiled them endlessly, and the fun never stopped. They loved their Grammy with all their hearts. She was grateful for her wonderful life and grateful to be surrounded by so many friends and family. Her kindness and joy showed in all she did and everyone she touched.