PHYLLIS PETTS

Phyllis Rose Petts, age 79, of Neenah, passed away on April 16, 2010 at the home of her son in Neenah. She was born on January 17, 1931 in Polar, Wisconsin to the late Rose (Sensenbrenner) and Frank Wolter and was one of 13 siblings growing up on the familys farm in Polar. She graduated from Antigo High School in 1949, married Walter J. Sopata on January 28, 1950, and had four children. Phyllis is remembered for her zest for life, her loving nature, and her optimistic spirit. She retired from Kimberly Clark Corporation in 1993. She previously worked at Norms Steak House in Neenah and as a homemaker. She married Robert E. Bob Petts on August 7, 1984. They celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary last summer. During her retirement, Phyllis enjoyed travel and playing for Kimberly Clarks womens golf team. She was a member of the Neenah/Menasha Elks Club. She belonged to the St. Marks Lutheran Church choir and also volunteered her time at St. Marks helping to sew quilts which the church donated to World Relief. Additionally, she volunteered as a donors aide for monthly American Red Cross blood drives. An accomplished bridge player, Phyllis belonged to three couples bridge clubs for many years and had served as club secretary and a tournament organizer. She also was an avid chess player and enjoyed cribbage and gin rummy. Surviving Phyllis are her husband Robert Petts; children: Susan (Robert) Tews of Colorado; Dean (Vickie) Sopata of Neenah; Teri Pollett of Indiana; and Neal (Treesa) Sopata of California; and five grandchildren: Eric Tews, Kellie Sopata, Stephanie Tews, Scott Sopata, and Preston Pollett. Also surviving are siblings: Verna Drucks; Herbert R. Wolter; Lorraine (Byron) Buck; Rita (Kenneth) Boettcher; Audrey (Leonard) Artz; Jack W. (Sharon) Wolter; James F. (Ann) Wolter; Michael T. Wolter; and Diane (Thomas) Bunck. She also is survived by step-children: Yvonne (Gregory) Baldwin; Robin (Dave) Noll; Mary Jo (Randy) Tenpas; Robert D. (Liz) Petts; Jason E. Petts; 14 step-grandchildren; and 8 step-great-grandchildren. Preceding Mrs. Petts in death are her first husband; brothers: Glendon Wolter and Donald Wolter; and sister Mary Ellen Cavanaugh. The funeral service for Phyllis will be held Tuesday, April 20, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Marks Lutheran Church of Neenah, The Rev. Stephen Dietzler officiating. Friends may call at St. Marks from 9:00 A.M. until the hour of service at the church. Burial will be at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Neenah. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Phyllis Petts Memorial Fund.