Phyllis M. McCourt

Phyllis M. McCourt, 93, formerly of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, passed into the arms of Jesus on January 22, 2011 at Trinity Medical Center, Bettendorf, Iowa. Phyllis Maurine Cleary was born on June 26, 1917 to Maurice T. and Grace E. Green Cleary in Chicago, Illinois. Phyllis lived a short time in southern Wisconsin but spent most of her life in Fond du Lac. Phyllis was joined in marriage to Howard C. McCourt on a snowy 22nd day of January in 1941, in Fond du Lac. He preceded her in death on March 6, 1999. She was a devoted wife and mother and also cared deeply for her friends, neighbors and relatives. Phyllis moved to Iowa in February of 2010 to be closer to her daughter.In her early adult years, Phyllis worked as a secretary for what was then called the Relief Dept. helping clients who were less fortunate. After her marriage, she moved to the McCourt family farm in the Town of Friendship. There, the city girl learned to become not only a wonderful wife, but also a valued partner in running the farm. Phyllis was active in many community organizations and church activities. She was among the charter members of the West Shore Homemakers and also was instrumental in starting the Hands of Friendship 4-H Club. She was also active in promoting dairy products and farming and worked closely with the Fond du Lac County Extension Office to achieve that end. She and Howard also were active supporters of education and served in several capacities with the former Lakeview School and later in other roles. Phyllis worked regularly in her garden and was a great cook and baker, even winning contests in her younger years. Perhaps her most active role was that of nurturer. She often befriended the elderly or lonely and made sure to visit them at the holidays, and taught her children to show compassion. She loved to have fun and laugh, and she found a way to celebrate every holiday that came around. Phyllis always had a positive attitude and encouraged others to do the same.Phyllis was an active member of First United Presbyterian Church and attended regularly until age 92. Her Christian faith was lived out every day of her life. The legacy of faith that Phyllis and Howard passed on to their family is the one gift that will be most cherished. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Valarie and Ron Hessel, of Bettendorf, Iowa and her son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Cheryl McCourt of Kennewick, Washington. She is also survived by six grandchildren: Shannon (Mike) Novakovich of Pasco, Washington, Josh McCourt of Kennewick, Washington, Scott (Nicole) Hessel of St. Cloud, Minnesota, Kevin (fiancée Natalie Buchheit) Hessel of Vancouver, Washington, David (Rene) Hessel of Boone, Iowa, and Mark Hessel of Ames, Iowa as well as two great-granddaughters, Brooklyn and Breanne Hessel of St. Cloud. She also leaves behind several nephews and nieces, particularly Charles McCourt and his wife Ruth whose loving help over the years has been invaluable. Vernon Augustine, a longtime employee who became a beloved friend is also left behind.Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents and husband. Special thanks to all the caring aides and staff that assisted her over the last several years, both at home in Fond du Lac, and later in Iowa, most recently at Manor Care. The family appreciates all the prayers and affection shown to Phyllis over the years by her dear friends and family.Memorials may be directed to First Presbyterian Church, the Salvation Army of Fond du Lac, or the charity of your choice.The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 28, 2011, at First Presbyterian Church, 1225 Fourth Street, Fond du Lac, with Rev. Jack Harrison officiating. Burial will follow in Rienzi Cemetery.The visitation will be on Friday at church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.

Phyllis M. McCourt

June 26, 1917 - January 28, 2011