Phyllis Jane Reinhardt, age 92, passed away on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill, while under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.
Phyllis was born August 4, 1932, daughter of Alfred and Laura (Smith) Johnson. She married Ted Reinhardt Jr on April 14, 1951, at St. Stephens United Church of Christ in Merrill. They were blessed with 33 years of marriage until his passing in July of 1984.
Phyllis and Ted enjoyed polka dancing and playing sheepshead with many friends and neighbors. They ran the Lake View Ballroom for one year before moving to Ted’s families dairy farm which they ran together until his passing. Phyllis enjoyed making meals and spending time with family and friends that helped on the farm. Phyllis then worked at Seeger’s Dairy and Fox Point for many years until her retirement. Phyllis was involved in teaching Sunday school and was involved with the Dorcas Society at St. Stephens. She was also a 4-H leader and Vice President of the Copper Dell Homemakers Club where she also sang in the choir. Phyllis was very proud to be the first woman elected to the Lincoln County Zoning Board as well as the Lincoln County Fair Board. She also felt very proud to have met and shook hands with John F. Kennedy. Phyllis also enjoyed working at the Town of Scott polls for various elections over 40 years.
Phyllis loved spending time with family. Her grandchildren were the light of her life. Her favorite pastime was watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow up and participate in activities over the years. She never missed an opportunity to support her family.
Survivors include her daughters, Cheri Reinhardt, Nancy Reinhardt-Porath (Jeff), and Jill Reinhardt all of Merrill; grandchildren, Jennifer Porath, Ted Porath (Jackie), and Janessa Weisman (Ryan); great-grandchildren, Owen, Brantley, and Vera; siblings, Janet Beyer and David (Roxie) Johnson both of Merrill; and many nieces and nephews. Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ted; son, Mike; and siblings, Mark and John.
The memorial service for Phyllis will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, May 3, 2025, at St. Stephens United Church of Christ, Merrill. Rev. Mike Southcombe will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M. Saturday at the church.
Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com
