Phyllis G. Starke
May 10, 1913 - May 29, 2013
Obituary
Phyllis G. Starke
Phyllis passed away peacefully at home on May 29, 2013, soon after celebrating her 100th birthday with her family and close friends.
Phyllis was born in Waterloo, Iowa in 1913. Ahead of many women of her time, she graduated Stephens College in 1934. She married the love of her life, Ivan Leigh Starke in 1939.
She and Ivan made their home in Des Moines, Iowa, where they raised their family, son Skip and daughter Ginger. Phyllis had a love of music and was fond of ballroom dancing. As an accomplished violinist, she played for many years for the Des Moines Symphony Orchestra. She worked in real estate, but was best at being a caring, stay-at-home mom.
In 1979, Phyllis and Ivan moved to Federal Way, Washington to be closer to their two children, grandson and their families. They spent many years enjoying golf at their home in Twin Lakes. Phyllis was an active member of PEO as well as a volunteer at Virginia Mason Hospital.
Phyllis played a good game of golf, and a great game of bridge, both well into her nineties. She was blessed with great physical health throughout her life.
Phyllis was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and mother-in-law. She was a gentle, kind and sweet lady to her last minutes on this earth.
We will always remember and try to emulate her kindness by caring for those around us. Mom, we all miss you, but know you are in a peaceful place.
With all of our love, Skip, Ginger, Cathlin, John, Sean, Jake, Michelle, Zachary, Miale, Barbara & Wayne, Cristina, Adrian, Stefen and Tudor.
A celebration of Phyllis’s life will be held at a later date. The family asks remembrances be sent to Stephens College, Missouri.
Skip, was very sorry to hear about your mother. I know she gave you your love of music and you enjoyed her company.
Take care,
Kathy