Phyllis Conrad

PHYLLIS CONRAD

Cedar Rapids

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 the Rev. Heather Hayes at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 30. 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 Sept. 14, 1941. After Roger's career took them to Dallas and Rockford, Ill., 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, PEO, 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, Fla.; daughter, Karen (Carl) Thompson of Ames; five grandchildren; and five great- grandchildren.

Her husband, Roger, and daughter, Nancy Hugo, preceded her in death.

Memorials may be sent to First Presbyterian Church, 310 Fifth St. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401; Waypoint, 318 Fifth St. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401; or to a charity of the donor's choice.