Memorial
Phyllis Anita Conrad, 96, died of natural causes on Sunday, July 3, 2016, at St. Luke’s Hospital. A service in celebration of her life will be conducted by Rev. Heather Hayes at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories on Saturday July 30, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.
Phyllis was born in Guernsey, Iowa, to Elsie and Roy Wenger on March 18, 1920. She grew up in Cresco, Iowa. She married Roger Conrad in Cedar Rapids on September 14, 1941. After Roger’s career took them to Dallas, Texas and Rockford, Illinois, the Conrads returned to Cedar Rapids in 1966.
Phyllis was an outstanding homemaker. She loved to entertain and was an excellent cook. She enjoyed a variety of handicrafts, such as painting, sewing, needlework, and pottery making. She loved to travel and was enthusiastic about camping, canoeing, gardening, swimming, and golf in her younger years. Phyllis was a member, deacon, and elder of First Presbyterian Church of Cedar Rapids. She belonged to Tourist Club and Hi-Lo Investment Club, was a member and past president of Chapter GM, P.E.O., was previously involved in Camp Fire Girls and Cub Scouts, and served on the YWCA Board of Directors. At Cottage Grove Place, where she moved in 2011, Phyllis volunteered in the gift shop, facilitated the Caring Friends group, and continued to be an avid reader and bridge player.
Survivors include her son Thomas (Susan) Conrad of Jacksonville Beach, Florida, daughter Karen (Carl) Thompson of Ames, Iowa, 5 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Her husband, Roger, and daughter, Nancy Hugo, preceded her in death.
Memorials may be sent to First Presbyterian Church, 310 5th St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401; Waypoint, 318 Fifth Street SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.