Ivan R. Phillis, age 97, has entered the resting arms of his Lord and Savior on May 6, 2018.

Ivan was born April 6, 1921 to the late Fred & Edna (Moore) Phillis in Vinton, IA. He attended the local schools and graduated from Vinton, IA High School.

He married Mary Ganske in August of 1946 in Sumner, IA. She preceded him in death.

Ivan was inducted into the U. S. Army Airforce on November 5, 1942. Ivan served as a Radio Technician and was awarded a Victory Medal, American Theatre Ribbon, Overseas Service Bar, Service Stripe, and a Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged January 31, 1946.

Ivan worked for the J.C. Penney Co. for 36 years. His steadfast dedication to the company led him to numerous store locations which include: Cedar Rapids, IA, Marshall Town, IA, LaCrosse, WI, Janesville, WI, Ortonville, MN, Iron River, MI, and Stevens Point, WI. Ivan managed the Stevens Point location for 18 years and humbly retired in 1981.

In his free time, Ivan enjoyed the focus and social aspects of playing golf, and the excitement of cheering on the Packers and Brewers. He was a member of the Elks Stevens Point chapter and the American Legion.

He is survived by son, Thomas (Barbara) Phillis of Wisconsin Rapids; daughter, Julie Phillis of Portland, OR; granddaughter, Amy Jo (Fiancé Bill Belanger) Phillis; and grandson, T.J. (Jamie) Phillis. He is further survived by great-grandchildren, Zane & Levi and best friend, Ellie Bjorge.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary; parents; brothers, Charles and Carlos; and infant daughters, Cynthia and Patricia.

A Funeral Service to Celebrate his Life will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 12, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church with Rev. Clay Schmit presiding. A time of visitation will be held prior to the service on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the service at the church. Burial will follow in Forest Cemetery with full military honors.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Arborwood of Wisconsin Rapids and Atrium of Wisconsin Rapids for the wonderful care that was given to Ivan.