It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of Phyllis Schimkat, 94, — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
These are the contours of a life that meant a great deal to many.
Phyllis entered this world in 1927 — the start of a journey that would span 94 years.
Phyllis held deeply to the Lutheran faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew her best.
The traditions Phyllis loved will continue to hold those she loved.
Phyllis Ann Schimkat, 94, passed from this life to her Heavenly home on Friday – July 16, 2021. She died at her daughter Lori's home, surrounded by her family. A celebration of life service for Ervin and Phyllis Schimkat will be held at First English Lutheran Church, Parker SD, on August 13, 2021, at 2:00pm. A private family burial will follow this service. Arrangements by Hofmeister-Jones Funeral Home. Phyllis was born on May 9, 1927, in Lowell Township, WI to the late Lester and Elsa (Henke) Newville. She was a graduate of Custer High School in Milwaukee, WI. Shortly after Phyllis' high school graduation she met and married her sweetheart, Ervin Schimkat in 1945. Phyllis and Erv moved to South Dakota in 1950. Phyllis was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt. She was an active member of First English Lutheran Church in Parker. She also had a successful career at the local bank in Parker. Over the years as she moved to Arizona, Wisconsin, and Florida, she continued to serve her family, neighbors and church families. Her family especially appreciated her quiet, loving, and thoughtful nature. Phyllis is survived by her children – Gregory (Elaine) Schimkat of Naperville, IL, Karen (Max) Begeman of Palm City, FL, Teri Towns of Buena Vista, CO and Lori (Bob) Stanwood of St. Joseph, MI; 9 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; sister-Janice (Charlie) Randa of Silverdale, WA; and sister-in-law, Hertha Lillge of Gilbert, AZ. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of nearly 75 years-Ervin; her parents-Lester and Elsa; brother-Glenn (Peggy) Newville and sister-Shirley (Glenwood) Weber; brothers-in-law – Arthur (Ann) Schimkat and Clarence Lillge; and sisters-in-law Olga (Hilmar) Holm and Erna (Howard) Hildebrandt.
