Evelyn Phillips

The early 1950s were a tumultuous time for many as Europe navigated a post-WWII world. It was in the city of Linz, Austria, that Evelyn Dora made her entrance into life on February 6, 1953. She was adopted at the age of five and moved to the United States, arriving in New York City. Evelyn was welcomed warmly by her parents, Virgil and Evelyn Schlotter, along with her sister, Dianne.

Despite the uniqueness of her early childhood, Evelyn grew up as a typical girl of her generation in many ways. She was raised alongside her sister, Dianne, in the family home on the Northeast side of Grand Rapids. Evelyn worked hard to learn English and adapt to her new environment and life. Since her father, Virgil, spent time serving in the military, the Schlotter family traveled often while she was young. They would travel with him when he went for training in the summers as well. Evelyn enjoyed gardening, a hobby she learned from her mother. From a young age, she was very creative, and she loved sewing, playing the piano, and art.

Evelyn attended local schools, including East Oakview Elementary School and Northview schools. She excelled in her studies, and during high school, she sang in the Madrigal choir. Evelyn attended First Free Methodist Church with her family, forming the foundations of her faith. She was also involved in the Christian Youth Crusaders there. Evelyn graduated from Northview High School and then went on to spend some time at Davenport College.

Through her marriage to Michael Cremer, the two welcomed their two children, David and Diana, into their hearts and home. In later years, Evelyn was able to welcome her grandchildren and loved to give them heartfelt gifts each Christmas. She treasured her recent vacation to Mackinac Island with her sister, Dianne, and half -sister Hanna as one of her best. Evelyn was also blessed to be reunited with several of her half-siblings.

Before long, Evelyn was lucky enough to find love again with Doug Phillips. The couple were married and would go on to spend more than 25 years together. Evelyn and Doug bought land and built their house in Newaygo, fulfilling their dream of owning a home. She poured her heart and soul into making their house into a home, putting her talents for decorating and design to good use.

Over the years, Evelyn worked at a variety of places. She spent time working at Bissell and Steelcase. Evelyn was also able to build a career for herself at Butterworth Hospital. She eventually returned to Grand Rapids and settled down on the Northeast side of the city. Evelyn was known for her resilience, and even while undergoing treatment, she was determined to live each day to the very fullest.

When reflecting on the life of Evelyn Phillips, it is easy to see both her unwavering strength and her constant faith. She was meticulous and detail-oriented, and though she faced obstacle after obstacle, she never gave up. Evelyn was blessed to watch her family grow to include so many loved ones. She created memories that will be remembered.

Evelyn Dora Phillips, age 71 of Grand Rapids, passed away December 30, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Evelyn (Briggs) Schlotter; her daughter, Diana Eckert.

Evelyn is survived by her son, David Cremer; son-in-law, Les Eckert; grandchildren Aubrey and Sabrina Eckert, Megan, Tristan and Gabrielle Cremer; Sister, Dianne (Harold) Rucker; brothers, John Schlotter and Peter (Ruth) Martin; half siblings Hanna Wardell, Brigitte Temling, Alan Temling; as well as nieces and nephews.

The service to remember and celebrate Evelyn’s life will be held on Friday, January 3, 2025 at 11 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield Ave. NE, where friends are invited to visit with her family beginning at 9:45 AM. For those who wish, donations to help with her final expenses are appreciated. To read more about Evelyn, to share a memory or photo, or to sign her guestbook, please visit www.heritagelifestory.com