Phil Chandler Oftelie

Phil Chandler Oftelie 

Born July 9, 1932 in Maryville Missouri, died on December 21, 2024. 

Immediate family left to cherish his memory are his daughter Robin Stoupa (husband Paul Stoupa); son Mark Oftelie; granddaughter Melissa Krejci (husband Ryan Krejci) and great grandchildren Troy, Kaylee & Elli Krejci. 

 Phil was born to Os & Marie Oftelie and lived most of his childhood in Sioux City, Iowa. He graduated from Wentworth Military Academy Junior College & then attended Iowa State University. In 1954 he earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial education. While at Iowa State he met the love of his life Mariel Kohn. During his time in college he spent 2 years in the Army, during the Korean War.

 Phil had many different jobs during his working years, 7 years as a foreman with General Motors; 2 years as a management consultant with Alexander Proudfoot; 5 years with Wilson Concrete: 23 years as a division manager for the Swanson Corporation.

 One of Phil’s favorite hobbies was playing golf. He was a low handicap player and earned two holes-in-one over his long golfing career. When the family moved to the Bellevue/Papillion area in 1969 he was a charter member of Platteview Country Club. He continued to play golf all winter long at their home in Escondido California.

 Phil was a member of the Hope Presbyterian Church, and a member of the Masonic Lodge 39 in Papillion.

 A lifelong love for music brought him many happy years of dancing and singing along with his wife Mariel. He also enjoyed gourmet dinner groups. If you were fortunate to have had dinner at the Oftelie's, you were treated to a wonderful meal, a formal table perfectly set, and a glass of wine.

 Phil will be remembered for his gift of wood working. He made many personal creations to share with family and friends for birthdays, Christmas and special occasions. 

 He was always up for a game of cards, Farkle or dominos. Phil and Mariel loved traveling to countless destinations in the US and across the globe together and with friends. He enjoyed being in sunny southern California during the winter. He was truly delighted to spend time with his 3 great grandchildren over the last 13 years. 

 He kept his eyes on Jesus as his Lord and Savior and found great peace in Him. 

Family will receive friends Tuesday, January 28, 2025 beginning at 1:30pm, followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00pm at The Nebraska Masonic Home, 1300 Avenue D, Plattsmouth, NE.

 In lieu of flowers, donations in Phil's name may be made to The Nebraska Masonic Home in Plattsmouth, NE or Hope Presbyterian Church.