Fern R. Yost
July 23, 1925 - March 16, 2008

Fern R. Yost, 82, of Sterling, went to her eternal home on March 16, 2008, in Sterling. Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, at Chaney-Reager Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Thursday, March 20, at 2 p.m. at Chaney-Reager with Pastor John Roberts officiating. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery following services.

Fern was born July 23, 1925, to Abraham and Rose (Ballweg) Ratzlaff in Storlie, N.D., the fourth born of five daughters. The family later moved to farm in Burlington. She graduated from Burlington High School in 1943.

Fern married Leroy Phipps on July 15, 1945, in Denver. They then moved to Greenfield, Mass.

She moved to Denver in 1954 where she worked for Farmers Union as an insurance underwriter for nearly 20 years.

On June 25 1971, she married Henry (Allen) Yost in Denver. They resided in Sterling until his death in 1994. She then moved to Greeley to be near her daughter.

Fern was a member of Faith Methodist Church and enjoyed singing in their choir. She sang in many choirs throughout her life, including Sweet Adelines. She also enjoyed playing bridge, painting landscapes, needlework, gardening, good literature and classical music. Her greatest legacy, however, will be the love and support she had for her family. She will be remembered and missed as a wonderful mother, grandmother and aunt.

Fern is survived by her children, Scott Phipps of Florence, Victoria Williamson and husband Richard of Greeley, Lane Phipps and wife Susie and Dennis Yost and wife DeAnne, all of Sterling; grandchildren, Todd Phipps of Aurora, Kenya Lunsford and husband Andy of Highlands Ranch, Mike Williamson of Greeley, Andrew Phipps and Jordan Phipps, both of Sterling, Michelle Henry and husband Billy of Crowell, Texas, and Dana Dunkersen and husband Bob of Dacona; great-grandchildren, Colin and Max Lunsford and Shelby and Brayden Henry; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Fern was preceded in death by her sisters, Eileen Morell, Francis Litty, Dorothy Bean and Neva Boyer.

Fern was very generous and loved to share the Lord's blessings with many people. Consequently, the family has decided that memorial contributions may be made to Samaritans Purse 'Operation Christmas Child' in care of First Baptist Church, 915 S. 8th Ave., Sterling, CO 8751.