Phyllis Mae Hinkens, age 85, departed this world into eternity on July 24, 2026, with her family at her side. She was born in Green Bay to the late William and Mabel Lamine on Aug 12, 1940. Phyllis attended Kaukauna High School and following that became a bookkeeper first at Thilmany, then Azco and ending her career at Cloud Buick in Appleton. She worked there for many years, forging relationships and friendships. In 1962, she married Joe Hinkens and they lived in the Fox Valley and raised their family. Following retirement, she and Joe moved to Shawano.

Phyllis and Joe enjoyed maintaining their lawn with immaculate skill, and Phyllis’ prowess with her flower garden is legendary within her family. She was independent throughout her life and was also very protective of those in her world.

During her time in Shawano, Phyllis’ life was filled with time spent outside working in the yard and keeping busy. She enjoyed her daily trips to Kwik Trip for a coffee. Phyllis loved to shop for a bargain and would hunt multiple stores for just the right deal. She was a social butterfly, involved in the Red Hat Society, the Lions Club and the Women’s Club in the area.

Phyllis is survived by her children: Linda (Bill) Meyer, Joliene (Mike) Meyer, Christopher Hinkens; grandchildren: Jaclyn (Zach) Schuman, Madison (Jacob Jarosh) Meyer, Reese Meyer, Fletcher Meyer, Sam Hinkens, Lauren Hinkens; great grandchildren: Martin and Wyn. She is further survived by her sister Karen Wenzlaff, as well as the many friends who filled her world and other family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband Joe, grandson Justin, her parents and siblings: Joyce, Mary Ann, Donna, and Dale.

Thank you to St Croix Hospice as well as the wonderful care team at Country Villa.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:00am on Friday August 7, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 410 W Lawrence Street, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the church from 9:00am until the mass begins. Phyllis will be laid to rest at Allouez Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association or your local humane society in her memory.