Phyllis Margaret Birzer

Phyllis Margaret Birzer, passed away peacefully at her home in Ottawa, Kansas, on March 26, 2026, at the age of 100. Born on January 28, 1926, in Topeka, Kansas, she was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and a cherished member of her community.

Phyllis was the beloved daughter of Raymond and AnnaMaria Martha (Cronquist) Fowler. She graduated from Highland High School and furthered her education at Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas. Her early years were marked by dedication and service as she contributed her talents to the Drafting Department at Boeing in Wichita, Kansas, during World War II. Later, she embraced the role of homemaker with grace and served as a para-professional at Pomona Elementary School.

On August 16, 1948, Phyllis married John Rudolph Birzer in a ceremony held at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ottawa, Kansas. Their partnership was a cornerstone of her life until his passing. Together, they nurtured a loving family and built a lifetime of memories.

Phyllis’s faith was central to her life. She was a proud and devoted member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ottawa, where she found strength and community for many years.

She is survived by her four daughters: Lisa Goedken of Conception Jet, Missouri; Bibiana Zweig of Topeka, Kansas; Deidre Birzer of Topeka, Kansas; and Celia Jardon (Bob) of Leavenworth, Kansas. Her legacy continues through her fifteen grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; her sons John Birzer and Franz Birzer; her brother Robert Fowler; her grandson Joseph Jardon; great-grandson Caleb Adwell; and two preborn great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on April 1, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Rosary at 9:30 a.m., all at Sacred Heart Catholic Church located at 426 South Cedar Street in Ottawa, Kansas. The Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 10:00 a.m., with interment to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 1310 East Logan Street, Ottawa.

Phyllis Margaret Birzer’s life was a testament to dedication, faith, and family. Her memory will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved her.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Sacred Heart Catholic Church 426 South Cedar Street, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.

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