Philys M. Clark

MADISON—Philys Marie Clark, age 91, passed away on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. She was born to parents Charles and Laura (Gilgen) Breitzke. She grew up and was very fond of Madison’s east side, and was a graduate of East High School, Class of 1950. She worked part time at Kresges Dime Store on the capitol square after her classes, and this is where Philys met her soul mate, Donald Clark. Their first date was ice skating at Olbrich Park. They were married on April 26, 1951, and they celebrated 56 years together. 

Philys was a volunteer at Olbrich Gardens and retired after 28 years with HACCO, Inc as an executive secretary. She enjoyed traveling, gardening, golf, bowling, fishing, and cheering on her Green Bay Packers. Philys was a longtime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Madison.

Philys is survived by her children: Sharon (Ed) Motiff, Donald (Chris) Clark, and Karen (Jim) Leighty; grandchildren: Michelle (John) Heinan, Timothy Volenberg, Thomas (Mary) McLaughlin, Angela (Seth) Evans, Eric (Heather) McLaughlin, Edward (Amanda) Motiff, Chris (Brittany) Leighty, and Nic Leighty; and 13 great-grandchildren. She is further survived by her brother Charles (Karen) Breitzke, half-sister Judy Dahler, and best friend Delores Minor. 

Philys was preceded in death by her parents, husband Donald, daughter Susan, half-sister Lory Anderson, half-brother Dennis Gerling, sister-in-law Joyce Jensen, brother-in-law Arthur Jensen, and granddaughter-in-law Tina Volenberg.

Visitation will be from 10-11:30 AM on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Cress Funeral Service EAST WASHINGTON with a funeral service to being at 11:30 AM. Philys will be brought to her final place of rest in a private service at Roselawn Memorial Park in Monona. Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com.

The family wishes to thank Agrace Hospice Care and Waunakee Senior Living for their care and compassion for Philys.

Memorials are appreciated to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1021 Spaight Street Madison, WI 53703 or Agrace Hospice Care (https://www.agrace.org/donate/).

Cress Funeral Service

3325 E. Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53704

608-249-6666