Obituary of PHYLLIS LILLIAN GELHORN

PHYLLIS LILLIAN GELHORN

Phyllis Lillian Gelhorn passed away with family by her side on March 27, 2023 at the age of 90.

She was predeceased by her husband Edward and son Bruce. Phyllis is survived by her son Lloyd, daughter Heather Sellings and daughter-in-law Elaine; five grandchildren Laurie Sellings (Fred Boutin), Jamie Morrison (Daniel), Sarah Osswald (Matthew), Heidi Gelhorn and Leif Gelhorn (Diana); nine great-grandchildren Noah, Grady, Juliette, Marley, Mason, Olivier, Becket, Lenni and Kinley; three sisters Lorraine Foott, Edna Magdych and Norma Zyla and many nieces and nephews.

Born in Hatton Saskatchewan she moved the farm with her family of origin to Dencross Manitoba as a toddler. She remained on the farm till moving to Winnipeg in her later teens. She met Edward during their Luther League days and married in 1954.  Phyllis had formal training as a secretary but her main roles were as a wife, mother and caregiver - roles which she excelled at. She was a foster parent to Jory Simard for many years. Qualities that we admired were her kindness, strength, sense of humour and always being able to make the best out of a difficult situation. 

Phyllis enjoyed being physically active. Even during her declining years, she would ask to do her exercises every day. Phyllis also enjoyed traveling to New Zealand, Europe and Alaska, crocheting, weaving especially making the pastoral stoles for Bruce, embroidery and music.

Phyllis was long-time member of Christ Lutheran Church until it’s closing and volunteered wherever there was a need, making Chrismons, on the alter guild and being a choir member.  She became a member of Grace Lutheran Church after Christ Lutheran closed.

The family would like to thank Veronica for providing kind compassionate caregivers especially Emily who was a comfort to Phyllis for many years and in her final days.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 3 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 211 Kimberly Ave, with Pastor David Lowe presiding.

Masks will be mandatory.

If friends so desire donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church, 211 Kimberly Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2K 0X3.