Phyllis Lillian Dietel, age 97 of Chase, MI, passed away peacefully at home on January 4, 2026.

She was born on June 16, 1928, in Reed City, the daughter of Herb and Nell Shoemaker.  In 1949, she married Gerald Dietel, who preceded her in death, in 1996.  Phyllis served her community as Pinora Township  clerk for 25 years as well serving as an Osceola County 4-H horse and pony leader for many years.  Her interests were broad; she was passionate about wildlife, and that passion carried on to her artwork where she recreated images of everything from elk to bird species. She was a lifelong learner and took classes to learn the repair of fine china.  She was an excellent seamstress and shared that knowledge with her 4-H sewing club.  Planting a large garden was always a priority along with baking all kinds of homemade bread for her family and neighbors.  The ability to nurture and raise everything from orphaned baby birds and rabbits, to growing beautiful beds of flowers was second nature to her.  Reading was always a favorite pastime, especially in the later years of life and she was a strong supporter of the local libraries. Most importantly was her passion for her family. Her grandchildren were the bright lights of her life and she referred to them as her treasures.  

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gerald, sister Kathleen Kilmer, sister Alberta Sisson, brother Dean Shoemaker, and brother Louis Shoemaker. 

She is survived by her son Bruce (Sally) of Chase, daughter Beth (Randy) Burkett of Rochester, Indiana, 4 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and 2 great, great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at the Chase-Barton United Methodist Church in Chase on January 24, 2026 at 12:00pm.