MANKATO–Phyllis Ann Martinka, age 98, of Mankato, died Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

Memorial Mass will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 30, 2025, at the Calvary Cemetery Chapel, Mankato, MN. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Mankato. Mankato Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Phyllis was born, May 8, 1927, to Charles and Veronica (Hoffman) Kraus in New Ulm, MN. She graduated from New Ulm High School. Phyllis worked at the Fritsche Clinic in New Ulm and as a nanny before marrying Jerome Martinka on August 26, 1950 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, New Ulm.

After raising five children she also “wore several different hats” assisting in the family businesses at the Kato Ballroom, Colony Club, and JD Truffles. She cared for and assisted many relatives and friends in times of illness.

Phyllis had a “Green Thumb” and she never met a flower she didn’t like! She loved working in her yard, feeding the birds, and experiencing nature. Even in her 90’s she had plenty of “spunk” and was very independent.

Phyllis was a long-standing member of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Community.

Phyllis is survived by her four children, Mike (Jill) Martinka of North Mankato, Joan Martinka (John Tritz) of Spring, Texas, Doug (Rhonda) Martinka of Bemidji, MN, and Jennifer Martinka (Howard Hed) of Mankato; son-in-law, David Dorland of Mankato; 10 grandchildren, Ryan, Amy, Joey, Jessie, Nick, Byran, Noah, Jacob, Zach, and Jana; 24 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Elaine Kraus of New Ulm; and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jerome in 2019; infant daughter, Mary; daughter, Jane Dorland; two brothers, Donald (LaVonne) Kraus and Thomas Kraus.

Phyllis’ family would like to give a special thanks, to Jennifer Martinka for her unwavering support and care for Phyllis. They would also like to thank Mayo Clinic Hospital and Laurel’s Peak Staff for their compassionate and quality care.

www.mankatomortuary.com

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