Dear Classes of 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1979 & 1980:

This is a Deacon Alert to inform you of the passing of Phyllis Elaine Ehlen on Friday, May 9th.

Phyllis was the wife of the late Matt Ehlen ('48), and the mother of Mark Ehlen, Julie (Ehlen) Van Voorhis, Thomas Ehlen ('77), Paula Ehlen ('79), Daniel Ehlen ('80), and the late Michael Ehlen ('76).

Obituary:

Phyllis Elaine (Gillespie) Ehlen, passed away at her home in Fargo on May 9, 2025, at the age of 92, surrounded by her family.

Phyllis was born on September 24, 1932, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Walter and Isabel (Reszka) Gillespie. She grew up and graduated from high school in Grand Forks. She received her bachelor’s degree in English from the University of North Dakota. It was during her college years that she met the love of her life, Dr. Matt Ehlen. The couple married in 1954 in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and ultimately welcomed six children into their family: Mark, Julie, Michael, Thomas, Paula, and Daniel. Phyllis and Matt moved their family through several cities, including New Orleans, Louisiana, Rochester, Minnesota, and Fargo, North Dakota, while Matt completed his medical education.

Phyllis cherished hosting many family parties both at her home in Fargo and at her lake home on Lake Lida, Minnesota, including graduations, bridal and baby showers, family Christmases, Thanksgivings, and even a gender reveal. Everyone’s favorite was always the fourth of July celebration at Lake Lida. She was always dressed for the occasion and enjoyed planning and decorating for every holiday. Phyllis was active in the Red Hat Society and enjoyed getting together with friends to play cards and “solve the world’s problems”. Phyllis also participated and held office in the Philanthropic Educational Organization.

Phyllis is survived by her brother Vernon (Judith) Gillespie, and her children Mark (Lynn) Ehlen, Julie (David) Van Voorhis, Thomas Ehlen, Paula (Jesse VanVlaenderen) Ehlen, Daniel (Gretchen) Ehlen, and daughter-in-law Julie Lynn Mortenson. Phyllis is also survived by her grandchildren, John Ehlen, Alex Ehlen, Hillary Ehlen, Caitlin Muller, Sophia Ehlen, Andrew Myogeto, Gavin Ehlen, Isabella Young, Matthew Van Voorhis, Austin Myogeto, and her great-grandchildren, Aiyden, Otto, Kloii, Camrie, Hallie, Ava, Bowen, and Lennon. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Michael, and her husband Matt.

Phyllis Elaine Ehlen will be honored in a memorial service that will celebrate her life on Saturday, June 14th, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Boulger Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center in Fargo.

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