Laura L. Philipps Reibenspies
May 13, 1919 ~ December 2, 2005
In a Spirit of Christian joy, the family of Laura Lucille Philipps Reibenspies commends her to the God whom she loved so well. Laura died peacefully with her husband, Frank, at her side, on December 2, 2005, at the age of 86, after morning Mass and the Sacrament of the Sick. Laura was born the second of five daughters to George and Edith Philipps on May 13, 1919, on a small farm in Dover, Missouri. Her sisters, Edna Robbins and Viola Chambers, preceded her in death; surviving sisters are Bernice Keenan and Mildred Bryde. Besides her husband Frank, Laura leaves to celebrate her memory, her children Greg and wife, Gail; Chris and husband, Freddie; Mary and husband, Tom; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Laura was an RN and served in the Army as a 2nd lieutenant during WWII on the Hospital Train Unit returning injured servicemen to military hospitals. Frank and Laura met, exchanged letters during the war, and became engaged on their first true date in 1946. They were married in June of that year and would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary next year. Laura taught OB nursing at Wichita Hospital and began the school nursing program at All Saints Catholic School. Throughout her life and in every neighborhood in which she lived, she was always the neighborhood nurse. During many of her retirement years, she and Frank delivered Meals on Wheels in Wichita. Laura, who spent her life caring for and serving others, will continue her service in heaven. Visitation 6:00 - 7:00 P.M. and Rosary 7:00 P.M. Monday, December 5, Downing Lahey East Mortuary. Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 Tuesday, December 6, 2005 Church of the Magdalen. Memorials have been established with Alzheimers Association 347 S. Laura Wichita, KS 67211 and Meals on Wheels 200 S. Walnut Wichita, KS 67213.
Visitation 6:00 ~ 7:00 and Rosary 7:00 P.M., both Monday, December 5, Downing Lahey East Mortuary.
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Please give my heartfelt sympathy to the Reibenspies family. My Mother, Dorothy Harms and my Dad, Paul Harms were friends with Frank and Laura for many years, when I was growing up. When my parents divorced, my Mother stayed in touch with them. Over the years everyone’s lives got busier and went in seperate directions, but my Mom always considered Frank and Laura to be close friends of her’s. I remember so many stories that were told to me about the kindness and generosity of Frank and Laura. When my Mother got sick with cancer, we ran into Frank and Laura at church. My mother was so glad to see them as she said ‘one last time’ as they were such special friends. They had so many comforting and upbeat things to say to my Mom. I hope all of you find comfort in knowing how many people’s lifes Laura touched. I am truly sorry for your loss. It is reassuring to know that my Mom can now visit again with her dear friend Laura. Love and prayers to all of the family, Janet Harms
My Dearest Frank, I read about Laura’s entrance into eternity on First Friday Dec. 2nd. I’m sure there is great rejoicing as she entered paradise. My job restricts me from attending the rosary or service, but my thoughts were on Laura Sun. night at Adoration as well as Greg, your daughters, and yourself. My sincerest condolences to you and your family. Your Friend, Tony Miller