Phyllis Joy Pahlke

Phyllis Joy Pahlke (Billings), beloved wife, and mother, passed away peacefully, at the age of 85, into our Lord's arms, surrounded by her family on December 7th 2020, in Longmont Colorado. Phyllis was born in Grand Junction Colorado on September 29th, 1935.

Phyllis was raised and attended schools in Grand Junction, Colorado. She grew up on a farm and enjoyed telling stories about her family that had a great sense of humor. This is where she met the love of her life, Fred. They were married on March 28th 1953, then started raising their family, which has always been the biggest joy of her life. Phyllis worked as a switchboard operator for the telephone company, and worked for United Fruit, helping ship peaches from Palisade, Colorado in the fall.

She relocated to Longmont in 1971 with her family. Though she was not initially excited about moving from Grand Junction she grew to love her new town and it quickly became the place she made many lifelong friends. Phyllis worked for H&R Block, and Seed Testing of America before retiring in 2005. She loved to garden, dance, sing, play cards and have her home filled with people and love. Her zest for life was undeniable and her travels kept her life full. She loved beaches and traveling while enjoying spending time with her friends and family. She loved being with all her grandchildren and later, her great grandchildren. Phyllis had such a big heart and was so generous that her extended family numbered in the hundreds.

She was a member of Junior Womens Club of Grand Junction and of the Elks Lodge. This year Phyllis was recognized for her dedication and volunteer work and received the honor of Elks Lodge Member of The Year. This award was well deserved and made her and everyone so proud.

Phyllis is survived by a very large family that includes her devoted loving husband, Fred Pahlke, her loving children, Sharon Pahlke Sleath (Gerry Grenier) of Lafayette, Colorado, Rhonda Spangler (Scott) of Raymond, Colorado, Randy Pahlke (Brenda), of Frederick, Colorado. Her precious grandchildren Melissa Ray (Justin), Joshua Sleath (Julie), Shannon Sleath (Clark Phenix), Elizabeth Woods (Tim), Paul Gaines (Janel), Amber Pahlke and Sarah Grenier. Her great-grandchildren Destinee, Brody, Joli, Lanai, Jakob, Miles, Aurore, and Mica. As well as many wonderful nieces, nephews and so many extended family members and friends, that there are too many to list.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her mother, Rose Graves (Billings), father Eugene Billings, brother Roger Billings.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt gratitude to Longmont United Hospital, especially the Emergency Department and ICU for their dedication and care that was extended to Phyllis and our family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 17, 2021 from 1pm until 4pm at the family home. A private inurnment will take place at Foothills Gardens of Memory, Longmont Colorado.

Visit www.howemortuary.com to send flowers/share condolences/memories.