Germaine (Van Domelen) Phelan

Germaine (Jeanie) M Phelan, age 86 was called home to her Lord on May 30, 2021.  Jeanie was born on August 21, 1934, third child to the late Edward and Bertha (Van Rossum) Van Domelen.  Jeanie married the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Phelan, on May 28, 1953 at St John’s Catholic Church in Little Chute.  Bob proceeded her in death on January 29, 2021.  Together they raised 7 children.

Jeanie was a devoted mother to her 7 children, and a second mom to many of the neighborhood children and cousins.  Growing up, the kids of the neighborhood congregated at our yard in Kimberly.  Mom always treated children with love and respect. As her children, we always knew we were loved and had a safe space at home. 

Jeanie's primary job, was as a homemaker, but she generally had a sideline of work going.  In the earler years she reupholstered furniture for family and friends.  There was usually a torn apart couch, chair, or kitchen set she was working on in the living room.  Mom was also a top notch seamstress.  If we couldn't afford to buy the latest styles, mom could whip up a better version, that was made with love.    She ultimately wound up sewing for Kimberly Clark Corporation, putting together designs that were functional for many of their disposible medical gowns and other items utilizing KC specialized material.  She traveled to Mexico to oversee the initial mass production in plants that KC contracted the work to. 

Mom went above and beyond the past few years, taking care of dad as his health declined.  Making sure he was safe,and could remain at home as long as physically possible.  Even in the twilight of her life, she was more concerned with those around her and that they were ok than she was with herself.  She was an amazingly strong and tenatious woman, that did not know the meaning of the word quit.  She fought with determination and grace.  Within a few days of her passing she declared that she was going to beat this.

Jeanie is survived by five of her  seven children.  Kat (Cynthia Littlepage) Romenesko, Oklahoma; Dan (Barbara) Phelan, Florida; Mary (Ron) Voelz, Appleton; Bob II (Coleen) Phelan, Union; Terry Phelan, Neenah.

She is further survived by Grandchildren; James (Katie) Phelan, Tracy (Jason Lux) Phelan, Sarah (Ryan) Vande Kolk, Kayla Phelan, Tommy (Halie) Patterson, Macie Walls; Nicolee (Daniel) Pulliam, Jasper Voelz; Jessica (Jesse Winkler) Phelan, Nikki (Darin Diver Sr) Trombello, Christopher Phelan; Kathleen, Liam and Bob III Phelan; Duane (Elena Rakowski) Phelan, Jonah Phelan, Emily (Thomas) Armstrong, Savannah Phelan; and 22 Great Grandchildren.

Jeanie is additionally survived by a sister Donna (Merl) Friebel ; sister-in-law Elka Van Domelen;  brother-in-law  Bill (Kay) Phelan; along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Jeanie was preceded in death by her devote husband Bob,  sons Dave and John and a grandson Avery.  Also preceding her were her parents, Edward and Bertha (Van Rossum) Van Domelen along with Bob's parents  John and Florence (Wall) Phelan.  Sisters Joyce Mauthe; Delores (Don) Peters; brothers Roger (Mary) Van Domelen; Richard Van Domelen; David Van Domelen; in-laws  Flossie (Elmer) Hoffman; Alice (Wayne) LeFevre;  John (Barbara) Phelan; and several nephews.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to our neighbors; John and Sue, Lance and Peggy and Al and Mary Anne.  Additionally, a special thanks to Calista, Aja, Payton, Florence, Rebecca, Carrie, Melissa, and Kim for the caring, compassionate and loving care they gave our mother in assisting us these last few months.

The funeral service for Germaine and Robert will be held on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at 11:00 AM at HOLY SPIRIT PARISH, 620 E. Kimberly Ave., Kimberly.  A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the church.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.verkuilenfh.com.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Thanks for all the sacrifices you made for us and being a good role model and example. We love you Mom, and look forward to the day when we are reunited with you.

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