Phyllis Marie Bruggen
April 03, 2012
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Service Details
Phyllis Bruggen, 94, passed away on Tuesday, April 3, 2012, at Wesley Community in Des Moines, where she was a resident.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, April 7, 2012, at 2:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. Visitation will be held one hour prior. Burial will be at Highland Cemetery in Eddyville, IA, following cremation.
Phyllis was born on July 7, 1917, to John D. Bruggen and Edith L. Bruggen Klein in Schleswig, IA. After her father’s death in 1922, she moved to Eddyville, IA, to live with her grandparents (Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Lee) until she graduated from Eddyville High School of Wapello County in 1934. She attended Simpson College from 1934-38 and received her B.A. degree. From 1938-40 she taught business subjects at Redfield, IA, and worked as Assistant Treasurer at Simpson College. From 1940-43, Phyllis worked for various businesses in Des Moines as a bookkeeper and secretary. She later attended Drake University and received her master’s degree.
In 1956, Phyllis joined the Des Moines Schools and was a business teacher at Tech High. From 1956 to 1982 she taught business subjects, and later counseling, at Tech High, Meredith Junior High, and Weeks Junior High.
Phyllis belonged to P.E.O. Chapter IZ, First Methodist Church, Des Moines Area Retired Teachers (DMARTA), Iowa Retired Teachers (IRTA), and was a life member of both the National Education Association and the Iowa State Education Association (ISEA).
After retiring in 1982, Phyllis helped care for her neighbor, Florence Jarvis, who passed away at age 98-1/2 years young in 1994. Phyllis enjoyed handwork of all kinds - china painting, gardening, and knitting caps for Des Moines school children.
Phyllis is survived by her nephews, Charles Major of East Moline, IL, and Jim Major of West Des Moines, IA; along with many wonderful friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, and sister, Lorraine Major.
Memorial contributions may be made to her church, First Methodist Church, 1001 Pleasant Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Judy Chamat
04/06/2012
Phyllis Bruggen was a dear, family friend.
We will miss her; knowing her brought us much joy!!!!
The Chamat Family
Charles Major
04/06/2012
Dear Aunt Phyllis,you were a great aunt. I remember spending every Christmas Eve at your place eating your divinity and celebrating! You taught and helped so many people in your life. I will remember you fondly.
Love Charlie & Cynthia Major
M. Johnson
04/06/2012
May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. Hold tight to cherished memories, lean on friends and relatives for support. Most importantly, cling to God by praying and reading the bible daily.(Psalm 34:18; Psalm 55:22; John 5:28,29)
Carol Osborne
04/05/2012
Phyllis was a dear friend and will be missed greatly. She was so kind to my mother, Helen Barnes, and my Aunt, Florence Jarvis! Her goodness will never be forgotten.
Phyllis Rodgers Kelsey
04/06/2012
Phyllis and my mother Madolin Chisman Rodgers were friends when Phyllis lived in Eddyville. In fact, I am named for her. I wish I had known that she was as close as Des Moines, because it would have been nice to be in contact with her. My sympathy to her family and friends.