Phyllis I. Baas

Phyllis Irene Baas, age 87, passed away on December 28, 2022.  Phyllis was born in Muskegon, MI on November 14, 1935, to Richard and Irene Fricke.  She graduated from Western Michigan University and worked at the Upjohn Company.  Later she became a stay-at-home mother.  In 1955, she married Gerald Baas and enjoyed 54 years of marriage.  Phyllis had many creative endeavors which included needlepoint, crocheting, and knitting projects.  Her beautifully detailed afghans have warmed many laps over the years.  She was a sharp card player and spent many years playing bridge and winning at blackjack.  In her younger years, she was active in downhill skiing, tennis, and later picked up golf where she received a hole in one trophy. She was an accomplished singer in the choir and in high school her choirmate was Charles Westover, later known as Del Shannon. She was involved with church and loved her Bible study classes where she oftentimes would serve as leader. She is best remembered for her sense of humor and making people laugh.  She was always fun to have at a party or social gathering serving up her wit and wisdom.

She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and we will all miss her passion for joy and laughter.  Phyllis is survived by her three children, Randall (Carol) Baas, Beth (John) Rodee, Dan (Lori) Baas; her 8 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; brother Bruce (Tammy) Fricke and her sister Helen Rozneck.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and 2 brothers.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a prayer service and lunch at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services 3926 S. 9th Kalamazoo, MI 49009. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be directed to the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission, in memory of Phyllis.