Philapena Hyland

Philapena Louise Hyland passed from this life to eternal life on Nov. 5, 2009, at her home in Columbus, Nebraska. She is survived by husband, Harold, Columbus; daughter, Jolene Hofpar and fiance' Larry Schaf, Columbus; sons, Terry (Annelle), Omaha, Tom (Sherry), Columbus, and Todd, Norfolk; and sisters Katherine Carroll (Lawrence), Columbus, and Helen Adams, Grand Island. Other survivors include five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by infant daughter Diane; infant grandson Jamie; parents, George and Philipina Zerr; brothers Pete, Tony, and George; and sisters Rosie and Betty.

Philapena was born Dec. 17, 1922, near Fontanelle, Nebraska. She attended country school through the eighth grade, and later was employed in Columbus at the Reece Wooden Sole Shoe Company. She worked for many years as a waitress at several Columbus restaurants, including the El Fran Cafe and Louies Steakhouse. Philapena enjoyed baking (best pie crust in the world) and canning, and cooking for her family. She was a long-time member of St. Bonaventure Church, where she and Harold were married on Sept. 15, 1951.

Memorials may be directed to the wishes of the family.