Phyllis Ellen Linder

Phyllis Ellen Linder

Born January 5, 1929 – Passed October 29, 2026

Phyllis was born in St. Paul, MN. She passed away peacefully at Gracewood Senior Living, surrounded by family.

She is proceeded in death by her parents, Leonard and Grace Johnson; husband, Melvin; and stepson, Daniel.

She is survived by children, Jeffrey, Gracia (Dennis) Trahan and Maggie Rose; stepdaughters, Loretta Crow and Luise (Robert) Norton; stepsons, Melvin Stanley (Margaret) and David (Paula), and other extended family members.

Melvin and Phyllis were married in January 1964. They were blessed with 13 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren.

Phyllis graduated from Harding High School in 1964, one year early. She worked numerous office jobs, taking the bus to work, starting at the age of 16. While working for Field Schlick Department Store, she joined the Drum and Bugle Corp. Marching in many parades and festivals.

Phyllis was an excellent seamstress, making wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses for her friends. She made clothes for her children and grandchildren. Later in life she made many quilts and baby blankets.

Phyllis loved her last job working for Anoka County Senior Outreach Program. She loved helping people and did this work till she was 83 years old.

Phyllis loved traveling. She sponsored many trips to Branson Missouri. She had visited all 50states and traveled to Europe, Africa and Japan.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 AM, on Friday, November 6, 2026, at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. Family will be greeting friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment at Oak Park Cemetery.

We take great comfort in knowing she is with the Lord and reunited with those who passed before her. She is greatly loved and will be dearly missed.