Phyllis Joyce Verchota

Phyllis J. Verchota, 85, of Duluth passed away August 13, 2016. She was born December 5, 1930 in Fargo, ND to Paul A. Rasmussen and Pearl K. Rasmussen (Amundson). Phyllis graduated from St. Olaf College with majors in Biology and Physical Education.   Phyllis went on to teach in several high schools after starting her career in Manley, Iowa where she met her husband, Robert (Bob) Verchota.  They were married on May 30, 1953.  She lived her dream job through teaching positions with the Duluth Public School district-first in the Home Bound program and later at the alternative high school located in the "Copper Top" church (First United Methodist). For years she sang in the First Lutheran Church choir, served on the Washburn Elementary PTA, ran the concession stand at the Eastern Little League baseball fields, and was involved in Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts and other clubs and programs as her children grew. After retirement she and her husband delighted in many trips throughout the United States with friends and relatives, visiting our National Parks and participating in bus tour adventures that took them south when Duluth winters persisted. They enjoyed golf and fishing and many outdoor activities together. Phyllis is survived by her sister, Lucy Randgaard, Detroit Lakes, children Joyce (Jim) Halvorson, Phil (Julie) Verchota, and Bob (Gwen) Verchota; grandchildren Hanna, Carl, Allie, Katie and Bobby; and many nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice, Alcoholics Anonymous, or Solvay Hospice House of Duluth. Visitation:  1 until 2 p.m. with funeral service to follow Saturday August 20 at Sunrise Memorial Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Highway, Hermantown.

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