COLUMBIA FALLS – Phyllis Rockwell Drisko died June 20, 2008, at age 98. She was the daughter of Harvey and Nellie (Tabbutt) Rockwell. Phyllis graduated as valedictorian of Columbia Falls High School in 1927. She trained at Maine General Hospital, Portland, receiving her RN in 1930. She practiced as a private duty nurse in Portland for several years, until her marriage to Laurence M. Drisko in 1934. As Fred Chandler wrote on the occasion of their 65th wedding anniversary, “Phyllis turned her talents and love of nursing to the residents of Columbia Falls. She responded quickly, skillfully and voluntarily to nurse anyone toward better health. She helped new mothers, new babies, sore toes, aching backs and bumped noses along the way.” She treated the town as family. Mrs. Drisko was a member of Columbia Falls United Methodist Church, where she was active in the Women’s Society and served as its secretary for 30 years. She was a wonderful cook, who won several blue ribbons for her pies and baked goods. She was also skilled at tatting and made many a beautiful doily and ornament for friends and for church fairs. Most of all, she was a truly selfless person who always thought of others before herself. Her kindness and quiet modesty were truly special. Her quiet grace was appreciated by those who knew her. Mrs. Drisko was predeceased by her husband, Laurence; and her sister, Cora. She is survived by nephews, Elliot H. Drisko Jr. and his wife, Linda, of Mohegan Lake, N.Y., their son, Timothy and daughter, Susanne; and Dr. James W. Drisko and his wife, Marilyn, of Northampton, Mass., and their daughters, Ann and Meghan. In her last years she was well cared for by staff at Narraguagus Bay Health Care Facility. A memorial service will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 26, at Columbia Falls United Methodist Church. Memorial gifts may be sent to United Methodist Church, attention: Ms. Robbins, treasurer, Columbia Falls, ME 04623.
PHYLLIS R. DRISKO
