Philip E. “Phil” Ehlers, age 74 of Clinton, passed away Tuesday, October 19, 2021 at his home. In following Phil’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 4:00 to 6:00 PM Friday, October 22nd at the Pape Funeral Home.
Phil was born in Maquoketa, Iowa on April 1, 1947, the son of William “Bill” and Elsie (Thiede) Ehlers. He graduated from Maquoketa High School. He served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, stationed in Germany. Phil married Nancy Ann Schlesselman on June 13, 1970 in Malcom, Iowa. He had been employed at International Paper for 35 years and later with Naeve Trucking in Andover. Philip was a wonderful loving husband, father and papa. For the last several years Phil was the primary caregiver for Nancy, enabling her to stay at home. His greatest passion in life was spending time with his daughters and grandchildren. Phil also enjoyed golfing, having coffee with his IP buddies, watching tv, especially old Westerns and he was always lending a helping hand to friends and family.
Phil is survived by his wife Nancy; 2 daughters, Christina (Kevin) McQuistion of Clinton and Patricia Ehlers of Cedar Rapids; 6 grandchildren, Christopher, Allison, Alexis, Taylor, Samantha, and Arian; 1 great grandson, Jaxon; his brother Burton (Mary) Ehlers of Bellevue and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister Rhoda and her husband Russell Scott, and a brother, Harvey and his wife Janice Ehlers. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com.
Phil and I grew up together in Maquoketa. We worked together at the Fareway Store and spent a few weeks together in the Army at Fort Leonard Wood. I always considered him a good friend.
May he rest in peace.