A Celebration of Life Service for Phyllis Freemire, age 89, of Heron Lake, will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Heron Lake, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM, with a time of visitation and gathering for one hour prior to the service.

Phyllis Faye Hassebrock was born on September 7, 1936, in Sibley, Iowa, to Phillip and Fayetta (Gerkem) Hassebrock. She was raised in the Christian faith and was a long time member of the First United Methodist Church in Heron Lake.

Phyllis grew up in a German speaking household, and when she first began school, she was sent home until she could speak English. With determination and resilience, she learned the language in just two weeks and returned to attend country school. She later attended Brewster Public Schools, graduating with the Class of 1955.

Following her education, Phyllis worked for several years at Campbell Soup Company. On the Fourth of July in Okabena, while attending the fireworks with friends, she met the love of her life, Erwin Freemire. The couple was united in marriage on July 30, 1960, at Brewster Presbyterian Church. Together, they built a life on the farm and were blessed with two sons, Dave and Roy.

Phyllis was a devoted farm wife and homemaker, working alongside Erwin while raising their family. She took great pride in her home, tending to her garden and creating countless meals and baked goods for those she loved. She was especially known for her lemon meringue pie and delicious rhubarb desserts. Later in life, after her sons had graduated, Phyllis worked at Lakeview Assisted Living in Heron Lake, where she continued to care for others with the same warmth and dedication.

In her free time, Phyllis enjoyed reading, crocheting, gardening, fishing in her younger years, and, of course, cooking and baking for her family.

Phyllis passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, at Lakeview Assisted Living in Heron Lake.

Phyllis is lovingly remembered by her husband, Erwin Freemire of Heron Lake; her sons, Dave and Roy Freemire, both of Heron Lake; her grandson, Oliver Freemire of Lakefield; brother, James Hassebrock; sister, Betty Whiteoak.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Phillip and Fayetta Hassebrock.

Phyllis will be remembered for her strong work ethic, her devotion to family, and the love she shared so generously. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.