Obituaries : Phyllis Patricia Cornelis

Phyllis Patricia Cornelis, 99, of Belle Plaine, IA passed away June 2, 2025 at Belle Plaine Specialty Care, Belle Plaine, IA.

Phyllis was born October 18, 1925 to Joseph Frank and Mildred Leona (Ealy) Sichra in Belle Plaine. Graduating from Belle Plaine High School, class of 1943. On May 25, 1943, Phyllis married Victor C. Cornelis at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Belle Plaine. Together they made their home in Belle Plaine, where Phyllis was blessed as a stay-at-home mom, raising their two children. As they grew, she began seasonal work at Funk's Seed during picking season, and the Belle Plaine Nursery. She also worked in the school cafeteria, retiring after 15 years.

Phyllis enjoyed crocheting, baking, gardening, reading, and doing crosswords. Most of all she cherished her time with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved to provide for her family; always looking forward to cooking for family get-togethers.

Phyllis was a member of Secret Sisters, St. Michael's Catholic Church and Daughters of Rebekah.

She is survived by her children, Dick (Kathy) Cornelis of Cedar Rapids, Linda (Doug) Henle of Belle Plaine; grandchildren, Chris (Kary) Markham, Scott (Lynn) Markham, Jodee (Dallas) Joslyn; great-grandchildren, Andrew, Shelby, Cheyann, Jaden, Hannah, Behre, Zack, Noah and Dylan; great-great-grandchildren, Owen, Milah, Harvey and on one the way.

Phyllis is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Victor; granddaughter, Melissa Bartlett; siblings, Jackie Daily and Richard Sichra.

Celebration of life is 1-3 p.m. Friday, June 6, 2025 at Hrabak-Neuhaus Funeral Service, Belle Plaine. Burial will take place following the celebration at Oak Hill Cemetery, Belle Plaine.

Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolence can be sent to the family at www.neuhausfuneralservice.com