On the evening of her 81st birthday, Sept. 4, 2025, Phyllis Jean (Dvorak) Schaefer, beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, treasured friend, and faithful servant of Christ, was gently called home to her eternal reward surrounded by her loving family.
Born on Sept. 4, 1944, to Hubert and Lillian Dvorak, Phyllis lived a life rooted in love, humility, and unwavering faith. For 62 beautiful years, she was married to the love of her life, George Schaefer, Sr. Their marriage was a testament to enduring devotion, patience and God’s grace.
A devout Catholic, Phyllis was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Seward, where she poured herself into prayer, service and love for others. A true prayer warrior, she walked with Christ daily, carrying others in her heart and on her rosary.
Her faith was evident in every aspect of her life. She lived to serve others – offering kindness, encouragement and hospitality to everyone she encountered. Her home was a sanctuary of love, her table always open, and her words full of gentle wisdom and grace. Many of her children's friends affectionately called her "Mom" and remained close throughout the years, something she cherished deeply.
She was her grandchildren’s biggest fan, never missing a single event – always early, always in the front row, cheering them on with pride. Her presence was a gift they could always count on. She was also famous in the family for her homemade salsa, a beloved recipe that everyone adored, and for her delicious pancakes made with love. Phyllis also found great joy and comfort in the faithful companionship of her beloved dogs, who were always by her side and held a special place in her heart.
To her family, she was the steady heart of their lives. To her friends and church, she was a beacon of faith and joy. And to her Lord, she was a faithful daughter who fulfilled her mission with grace, strength and humility.
Passing on the very day she was born feels like a sacred completion – a life beautifully and faithfully lived, now welcomed into eternal peace.
Phyllis is survived by her loving husband, George Schaefer, Sr.; and their three children, George, Jr. (Melissa), Myron (Wendi), and Brenda (Mike). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to 10 grandchildren, Jordan (Michaela) Burhoop, Brandon Schaefer, Kennedy Schaefer, Briahtia (Jared) Nottlemann, Briley (Nolan) Hakel, Turner Schaefer, Mitchell (special friend, Abigail) Sebek, Emily Schaefer, Brynn Sebek and Koston Schaefer; and two great-grandchildren, Tucker Nottlemann and Baby Hakel.
She is also survived by her extended family whom she loved dearly, Darlene (Leonard) Buresh, Tom (Dana) Schaefer, Diane (Cork) Wagenknecht, Mary Anne White, Art “Butch” (Jodi) Schaefer, Rick (Melody) Schaefer; her sister, Delores Dvorak; her sister-in-law who was like a sister, Cindy Bias; along with many nieces, nephews and a host of friends.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Hubert and Lillian Dvorak; her brother, Eldon Dvorak; parents-in-law, Arthur and Margaret Schaefer; sister-in-law, Elaine Plautz; brothers-in-law, Jerry Schaefer, Dennis Dvorak, Gary Plautz and Jack White; nephews, Michael Wagenknecht and Steve Plautz; niece Peggie Masek; and great-nephew, Cameron Brecka.
A gathering of family and friends will be Thursday, Sept. 11, from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Seward. The funeral mass will be Friday, Sept. 12, at 10:30 a.m. at the church with committal following at the Seward Cemetery.
Arrangements by Volzke Funeral Home.
