Phyllis C. Fredricks, Beloved Resident of La Crescent, Passes Away
La Crescent mourns the loss of Phyllis C. Fredricks, an esteemed member of the community and a cherished mother, who peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Springbrook Village in La Crescent. Phyllis was 86 years old.
Phyllis was born on August 7, 1937, in Winona, MN, to Henry and Mary Gerth, Sr. After graduating from Winona Senior High School in 1955, she received a scholarship to St. Mary’s School of Practical Nursing in Rochester, MN, where she became a registered nurse. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue further education at Viterbo University in La Crosse and Winona State University, where she earned a degree in Health Education in 1976.
Throughout her career, Phyllis dedicated herself to the field of healthcare. She worked as a nurse for many years before taking on a role as a medical records clerk at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse. Phyllis also contributed her skills and expertise to the Red Cross and held various other jobs before retiring in 2004. Her unwavering commitment to her faith was evident through her long-standing membership at the Roncalli Newman Catholic Parish in La Crosse, where she found solace and community.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Phyllis had a passion for music, reading, word and jigsaw puzzles, and nurturing a garden of vibrant flowers. She had a wanderlust spirit and found joy in traveling, especially to the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska. Phyllis had an uncanny ability to predict the outcomes of football games, and her love for baseball was unparalleled. During her retirement, she sought solace on the Gulf Coast of Florida, where she spent winters strolling along the beaches, collecting seashells, and marveling at the beauty of the tides.
Phyllis was a remarkable woman who embraced new experiences and opportunities with open arms. She tirelessly sought knowledge and attended lectures at the local library. She indulged her creative side by engaging in woodworking and photography classes and selflessly volunteered to bring light to theater productions as she operated the stage lights. Additionally, Phyllis mastered culinary delights, crafting mouthwatering potato salads and derby pies that delighted her loved ones. She lovingly crafted christening gowns for several of her grandchildren and knitted sweaters for her grand dogs, showcasing her nurturing and affectionate nature.
Phyllis is survived by her beloved children: Michelle Swanson of Morehead, MN; Kim Fredricks of La Crosse; Jeff (Stacey) Fredricks of Brice Prairie, WI; Denise Fredricks of La Crosse; and Scott Fredricks of La Crosse. She is also survived by her cherished sisters: Helen (Rich) Flores of Peotone, IL; Polly Johnson of Xenia, OH; and her brother, Henry (Ann) Gerth of Winona. Phyllis will be profoundly missed by her grandchildren: Tamara, Ben (Danielle), Eliora, Jacob, and Zeke Fredricks; and Duncan and Reilly Swanson. She also leaves behind her great-granddaughter, Addelyn Fredricks, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Family was always Phyllis’ top priority, and she never missed an opportunity to support and celebrate her grandchildren’s achievements in school and sports.
The Mass of Christian Burial for Phyllis C. Fredricks will take place on Monday, January 29, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Winona. The service will be officiated by Father Russell Scepaniak. Phyllis will find her final resting place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Winona.
Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation hours. Visitation will occur from 2 PM until 4 PM on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home in Winona. A Christian Wake Service will follow the visitation at 4 PM. On the day of the Mass, Monday, January 29, 2024, visitation will resume from 11 AM until the start of the service in the Commons of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
Phyllis’ family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Springbrook Village of La Crescent for their compassionate care during her time there. They would also like to extend their appreciation to Moments Hospice for their unwavering support during Phyllis’ declining health. The family is immensely grateful for the kindness and dedication shown to their beloved mother.
Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home of Winona is entrusted with the funeral arrangements.
Please leave online condolences or share memories of Phyllis with her family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.
Phyllis C. Fredricks will be remembered as a woman of unwavering faith, dedication to family, and a zest for life. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to have known her.
