Phyllis Russo

Phyllis G. Russo, age 94, of Wautoma, passed away Monday, Feb. 15, 2016 at her home.

She was born Jan. 26, 1922 in White Creek, WI, the daughter of Clifford and Myrtle (Smith) McFarlin. She married Roger W. Endthoff on Jan. 23, 1944. He preceded her in death on Sept. 30, 1970. She married Joseph D. Russo Sr. on May 26, 1973 at Faith United Methodist Church in Westfield.

Phyllis taught at St. Patrick's Catholic School in Mauston. Later, she taught first grade at Westfield Elementary School. Phyllis enjoyed arts and crafts, bird watching, reading, traveling, sewing, cooking, and baking. She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, the Women's Circle, American Legion Auxiliary, and the Garden Club.

She is survived by her husband, Joseph D. Russo Sr., Wautoma; six children, Elaine Decot, Bradenton, FL, Vernon (Idella) Endthoff, Westfield, Marsha (Marvin) Ballwhan, Palmetto, FL, John Endthoff, New Lisbon, Terry (Jim) Johnson, Westfield, Gregory Endthoff (Sherilee Shepard), Mosinee; five stepchildren, Beverly Hill, Myrtle Beach, SC, Antoinette (John) Franke, Stafford, VA, Bernadette (Joseph) Dorin, Seymour, Joseph (Julie) Russo Jr., Plainfield, Mary Magdalene (Brian) Pennenberg, Greenleaf; 20 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; one sister, Eleanor (Robert) Galitz, Sleepy Hollow, IL; one brother, Merle McFarlin, Clearwater, FL. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

In addition to her first husband, she was preceded in death by two infant sons, Larry Wayne and Michael Rae; her parents; one brother, David McFarlin; her daughter-in-law, Mary Kay Endthoff;
three sons-in-law, Gregory Quinn, Terry Decot, and Joseph Hill.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, Feb. 19, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace United Methodist Church in Wautoma with Rev. Domnik Israel officiating. Burial will be at Spring Grove Cemetery, Wisconsin Dells.

Visitation will be held at the Church on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services.