Phyllis Fleming Kroodsma

Phyllis Fleming Kroodsma was born in Sunnyside, WA, the eldest of two children to Gussie and Laura Fleming on January 16, 1922.  She passed away peacefully surrounded by her three children at the Hospice of the Chaplaincy in Kennewick, WA on March 21, 2016.  She was 94 years young.

Phyllis grew up in Sunnyside, WA and attended Central Washington University where she met the love of her life, Bob Kroodsma. They were married and spent 68 wonderful and loving years together prior to his passing five years ago.  Phyllis was a resident of Lake Oswego, OR, from 1953 to 2005.  From 2005 until her death she resided in Pasco, WA.

She was a loving wife and mother, and was adored by her grand and great grandchildren.  After her children were grown she worked in the Lake Oswego School District as a teacher’s aide for many years. She was deeply involved with her faith and her work at her church, the United Church of Christ in Lake Oswego, OR.  Phyllis was a gifted photographer and enjoyed the constant hunt for the perfect picture.  She was also an accomplished artist.  As a good friend recently stated, she had a vivacious life and all those that were touched by her; they will remember her giving, caring and kind personality, her delightful sense of humor, her infectious laughter and her love of family.

She is survived by her daughters Sheri Kroodsma of Pasco, WA, Jan Kroodsma Thomas (Dave) of Reno, NV and her son Dr. R. Max Kroodsma (Debbie) of Newberg, OR.  Also surviving her, are six grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren.  Phyllis was pre-deceased in death by her husband Bob, her mother and father and her brother Saxon Fleming of Royal City, WA.

A graveside service will be held for family at a later date in Sunnyside, WA.