Passed away peacefully at Age Care Brant on Friday, August 15, 2025, in her 90th year. Predeceased by her husband Martin Sieben (2006). Dear mother of Gary (Laura), John (Lisa), Patricia (Len), and Marty.
Very dear grandmother of Geoff (Devon), Taryn (TJ), Caesie (Zac), and Joshua. Great-grandmother to Liam, Ashlynn, Aimee, and Mikayla. Phyllis was a daughter of the late Angus G. Etmanskie (1983) and Tessie Etmanskie (1964). Predeceased by brothers Marion, Florian, and sisters Judy (Lisk), Anna Mary, and Theresa (Sullivan). She is survived by siblings Andy and Robert.
Phyllis was an unconventional lady (stubborn), and while she loved the small town where she was born and raised (Barry’s Bay), she longed to be in a bigger city. She moved to Oakville and later settled in Burlington, calling it home for over 60 years.
Phyllis defined success in life by the accomplishments and happiness of those she held most dear. She was always the encouraging daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandma, and friend—providing selfless and unconditional support to those lucky to be in her circle.
Phyllis was a proud woman with a quiet confidence and fierce determination to get through whatever life handed her and have some fun along the way. She fought many battles throughout the years, but her biggest battle was against time and a terrible disease—dementia. She fought the gradual loss of memory at home until the fight got too much; three years ago, she moved into Age-Care Brant and received wonderful support from PSWs, nurses, and doctors.
Throughout this fight, she maintained that sparkle in her eye, her kind, giving nature, and her fabulous sense of humor that would show up at the most random times. Our world has lost a woman truly beautiful inside and out, but heaven will surely be a better place upon her arrival.
Rest easy Mom!
As per Phyllis’ wishes and those of her family, a private cremation will be taking place. If desired, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to The Alzheimer Society would be sincerely appreciated by the family.
You can shed tears that she is gone or you can smile because she has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that she’ll come back or you can open your eyes and see all that she’s left.
Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her or you can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember her and only that she’s gone or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back or you can do what she’d want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Smith’s Funeral Home.
