Phyllis J. "Hake" Taylor

Phyllis J. Taylor of Egg Harbor, 78, passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by love, on August 31, 2025. Phyllis lived with a joyful spirit, a playful heart, and a kindness that touched everyone she met.

She was born on April 9, 1947 in Waukesha to Woodrow and Hazel (Schwemmer) Hake. Phyllis grew up in Waukesha and graduated from Waukesha South High School before earning her bachelor's degree from Stout State University. She had a long career in data analysis with Deluxe Systems, and retired to Door County in 2013.

Family was the center of her world. She adored her children and grandchildren, treasuring moments spent building memories with them. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she poured endless love into their lives.

She shared a love of travel with her longtime partner, exploring places near and far. From adventures across the Door to journeys abroad, she delighted in experiencing new cultures, landscapes, and discoveries together.

She had a wonderful sense of humor and a childlike curiosity that never dimmed. She loved to laugh, explore, and discover new things - reminding those around her not to take life too seriously and to find joy in small wonders.

Her kindness was unmatched. She had a gift for making people feel seen, special, and appreciated. Whether through words, gestures, or the thoughtful hand-grafted cards and gifts, she had a way of letting everyone know they mattered.

Her friendships were among the greatest treasures of her life. She loved gathering with friends to share meals, games, music, adventures, and laughter. She built lasting bonds everywhere she went, and those friendships brought her deep joy and strength.

She was also deeply committed to health and fitness throughout her life. She loved swimming, biking, and exploring all forms of exercise, finding energy and joy in movement. Her dedication to health (especially flossing!) was inspiring, and she approached wellness with the same spirit of enthusiasm that she brought to all areas of her life.

Door County was her lifelong love. From her earliest visits to building her retirement home there, she found beauty, peace, and community in its shores and woods. Building a life in Door County was one of her proudest achievements, and she embraced every moment of it. She was a proud member of the Ukulele Society of Door County, the No Name Ukulele Band, the Community Bell Choir, numerous book/card/crafting clubs and volunteered for many organizations and events.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her humor, her creativity, her extraordinary kindness, her adventurous spirit, and her boundless energy. Her legacy is one of love, laughter, music, friendship, and the countless lives she touched with her generosity of spirit.

She is survived by her two children, Angi (Kim) Kittelson of Cedar, MN, and Todd (Robin) Taylor of Allenton, WI; five grandchildren, Jack Taylor, Jill Kittelson, Erik Kittelson, Joe Taylor, and Sam Taylor; significant other, Gary Lagon; brother, Bruce (Donna) Hake of Sturgeon Bay; and sister, Karen (Jim) Grace of St. Germain.

A celebration of her life is being planned for a later date. In lieu of memorials, please enjoy ice cream with a loved one or bake a batch of homemade cookies and share them with your neighbor.

Huehns Funeral Home, Inc. & Door County Crematory LLC of Sturgeon Bay are assisting the Taylor family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Phyllis may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.