Phyllis Corrine Fratzke

Phyllis Fratzke, age 95 passed away on January 14, 2026. She is survived by her three daughters Karen Walker (Terry), and Michelle Reynolds of Grand Rapids and Pamela Ritter (Richard) of Johnson City, Tennessee, five grandchildren; Hillary Winn, Ryan Walker, Brent Ritter, Chase Ritter and Ethan Reynolds, five great grandchildren, Camden Walker, Bennett Walker, Macie Walker, Elias Ritter, Izzy Ritter, and Gabriella Ritter.

Born and raised in Independence, Iowa. She returned to college as a nontraditional student with three daughters. She graduated from Grand Rapids Junior College and Western Michigan University with degrees in Education. She also obtained a master’s degree from Michigan State University. She taught home economics at Forest Hills Junior High School. Initially taught child development at Grand Rapids Junior College and later became its program director. She started a preschool laboratory to provided hands-on educational experience in childcare for students, faculty and the community. A state of the art preschool building was later constructed on campus and named after her to honor her vision and dedication to the students and community.

She was known for her creativity, intelligence, and vision. Her passions were family, friends, golf, tennis, music, stained glass art, and extensive travel. She spent her retirement years between Florida and Michigan.

In lieu of flowers please make contributions to the Phyllis Fratzke Child Development Scholarship at Grand Rapids Community College.

Funeral services will be held in April.