Phyllis E. Just

Phyllis E. Just was born Nov.11, 1916 in Helena Montana to parents John J. Just and Carla F. Just . She is preceded in death by infant brother John “Freddy” Just and beloved sister Margaret C. Just.

Both of Phyllis’s parents emigrated from Denmark to America around the turn of the century. Her dad worked as a mine supervisor in Helena, Montana. The family moved to Minneapolis to be closer to friends and family shortly after “Freddy” passed away. Phyllis attended Longfellow school and graduated from South High School 1934.

Phyllis spent most of her working years as a book keeper. She was able to go to school for this “because my sister paid for my schooling/training”. Most of her jobs were here in the Twin Cities but she did also work for a bit in California and a few years on the East Coast.

Besides working, Phyllis loved to travel, being part of the hiking club and photography club, ski, collecting Indian crafts, politics, reading, antiques, and embroidery. Phyllis was one of the first female members of the photography club and won a number of trophies for films she made.

Phyllis liked to share her memories of adventures she and Margaret had taken. The trip to Korea in 1975 to help bring back 11 orphans infants & toddlers was one of her favorite. She also had a wonderful time in Denmark when she was able to stay there for about a year visiting with friends an family. This was after saving up enough money for a steamer ticket.

Their travels took Phyllis to many places which included England, Greece, Spain, Korea and all over the United States.

Phyllis was the oldest member of St. Peder’s Church. This church was founded by Danish families. Margaret and Phyllis had many life long friends here and it was a fun gathering place for them to connect with their Danish roots.

Margaret and Phyllis lived together for many years. They loved their house in the Bryn Mawr neighborhood where they lived for over 40 years. Phyllis continued to live there after Margaret passed away in November 1999. They enjoyed hosting gatherings and spending time with neighbors. On November 11, 2014 after her hip / legs went out on her, she was not able to live alone in her home any longer. As her body started to wear down and her eye sight worsened, you would hear her mention that she was ready to leave this earth and join her family in heaven. Phyllis passed away peacefully and with little pain. Please help us celebrate her well lived life.