Phillip J. Yakel

Phillip J. Yakel of Grafton passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on March 2, 2020, at the age of 88.  

Phil is survived by his wife Gerri, whom he adored and who adored him back after 51 years of marriage;  his loving children  Barbara (Gary) Dotzauer, Julie Hoffmann and Mark (Lori) Yakel; grandchildren  Anthony, Ross, Craig, Aaron, and Kelsey; great-grandchild Sawyer; brother-in-law Bud (Faye) Rusch; and sister-in-law Susan Goede; along with many loving family members.  

Phil was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Katherine (nee Jordon) Yakel; 15 siblings; sons-in-law Dennis Hoffmann and Gary Wittemann; and brother-in-law Raymond Goede.  

A special thank you to Warren and Arletta Balde for the special friendship and to all the caregivers at St. Lukes Hospital Knisely ICU floor, especially to Matt for his compassion shown towards our father.

Phil was a gentle man and gentleman.  He was kind, compassionate and a man of integrity. His focus in life was faith, family, and lovingly serving others.  He was always his children’s and grandchildren’s greatest supporters through every stage of their lives.  

Phil spent the majority of his working years in the corrugated box industry, retiring from Pioneer Container/International Paper after 40-plus years. He enjoyed all nature’s wildlife, especially his birds. They knew him well as he fed and cared for them year round. He looked forward to playing cards with his friends every month.  

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2020, at 1 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 701 Washington St., Grafton.  

The family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Pineview Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Center, W4953 County H, Fredonia, Wis. 53021; http://www.pineviewwrc.org/

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.muellerfuneralhoeme.com.

Mueller Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.