Submitted by: Dan Rich

Phyllis M. Oberfell

Dec. 1, 1928 - Nov. 9, 2002

South Bend Tribune 11/12/2002

Phyllis M. Oberfell, 73, of East Monroe Street, South Bend, Ind., passed away at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, in Hospice House. A lifelong resident of South Bend, she was born on Dec. 1, 1928, to the late George and Mary Graham. She was a 1947 graduate of Central High School and attended the South Bend College of Commerce. On the 15th day of July 1950, she was married to James W. Oberfell. Along with her husband of 52 years, she is survived by two daughters, Jill Marie (Steven) Scheu of Germantown, Md., and Beth Oberfell of South Bend; and her special "good buddy" granddaughter, Madeleine Kathleen Oberfell. Also surviving is a brother, Thomas L. Walling Sr., and a sister, Jessie M. Thomas, both of Harlingen, Texas; a sister, Catherine L. Heston of Mishawaka, Ind.; and many nieces and nephews who truly loved their "Aunt Phyl." Prior to her marriage and at various times thereafter, Phyllis worked as a legal stenographer for several distinguished attorneys. She was a charter member and past secretary of the St. Joseph County Bar Auxiliary. She was an active member of the South Bend Kiwanis Auxiliary and a member of Rose Croix Chapter 575, Order of Eastern Star and the South Bend Elks Club. Through the course of her life, she devoted many volunteer hours on behalf of charitable organizations. She served as president of the Service Guild of South Bend and remained a sustaining member. Phyllis was also a former chairman of the women's division of United Way. Phyllis particularly enjoyed her rounds of golf with her many friends at Morris Park and Four Lakes Country Clubs.

Although there will be no visitation, an informal gathering of friends to celebrate the life of Phyllis will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, at the South Bend Elks Club, 3535 E. McKinley Ave.

Her family is most grateful to Hospice of St. Joseph County and Hospice House, and all of the very wonderful professionals and volunteers who provided comfort, understanding and tender loving care.