Phyllis Baker

Phyllis Mae Baker, 68, of rural North English died Wednesday, April 18, 2018, at her home following a brief illness.

Phyllis, less than a year ago, took care of her husband Larry's funeral arrangements at his death. Her request for their family is to gather, share, support and remember her life; since Larry and Phyllis were often one, this is what Phyllis wanted for this time for her. No public services are planned, but if you would like to share a thought, memory or condolence with her family, please visit the funeral home website at www.gayandciha.com. If you would like to share a memorial donation, these funds will be used to support activities near and dear to Phyllis.

Phyllis Herbel was born Feb. 23, 1950, in Des Moines. Following high school, she met Larry J. Baker and the couple were married on Jan. 11, 1968. Phyllis so loved being “Wife” to Larry, “Mom” to Jeff, Phil and Amy, and “Grandma” to Jake, Jack, Emma, Jesse, William and Daniel. Family was her world, and she was so proud of it! In their retirement years they enjoyed wintering in the warmth of the sun and getting away from the cold, but always anxious to get back “home.”

Her family includes their children, Jeff Baker (Debra) of Conroy, Phil Baker (DeLisa) of Kalona and Amy Tapken (Matt) of North English; six grandchildren, Jake, Jack, Emma, Jesse, William and Daniel; siblings, Walter Herbel (Kay), Connie Dix and Peggy Wajda (David); many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by parents, husband Larry, brother-in-law Bob Dix, nephew Robert Dix and her great-great-nephew Corbin.

Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City is caring for Phyllis’s family and her arrangements.