Phillip Conrad Traul, affectionately known as “Papa Tango”, of Ottumwa, passed away at the at the age of 75, on August 25, 2024 at Hospice House in his home town of Ottumwa.
He was born July 19, 1949 in Ottumwa to Gordon C. and Helen McKee Traul. He married Gail Ann Smith on July 12, 1975 and she preceded him in death on July 13, 1991.
Phil was a proud alumnus of St. Mary’s Parochial School and Walsh High School, where he served as class president. He attended Northeast Missouri State University.
Phil led a life marked by dedication and service, both as a soldier and a fireman. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army First Air Cavalry Division, serving in Vietnam. He had worked at Shakey’s Pizza in Ft. Collins, CO, and 30 years for the Ottumwa Fire Department. Phil also owned and operated Traul’s Mighty Clean.
Phil was a long-time member of St. Mary of the Visitation and his faith was an important part of his life. He was also a member of Knights of Columbus Council #888, O. B. Nelson Post #3 American Legion and Walter B. Schafer Post #775 Veterans of Foreign Wars.
A man of many interests, Phil enjoyed NASCAR, boating, fishing, visiting Las Vegas, cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals and supporting the Iowa Hawkeyes. He shared these passions with his friends and family, creating lasting memories.
Phil was a steadfast friend and a loving family-man. Surviving is his daughter, Ashley (Brian) Luce of Ankeny; stepson, Eric (Wendi) Livingston of Eldon; a sister, Carolyn “Puddy” Traul-Bennett of O’Fallon, MO. His life was enriched by the joy of his grandchildren, Kollin, Houston, Brynley and Roman; and step-grandchildren, Mason, Kali, Brenna and Gavin.
He was preceded in death by his parents; step-son, Jon Livingston; and most recently by his brother, Gordan Michel Traul.
Visitation will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, August 30th at Reece Funeral Home.
Funeral services to honor and celebrate Phil’s life will be 1 p.m. Saturday, August 31st at Reece Funeral Home. The family will be present to greet friends one hour prior to the service Saturday. Members of the Ottumwa Fire Department will serve as Honor Guard.
Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery with military honors conducted by O.B. Nelson Post #3 American Legion and Walter B. Schafer Post #775 Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Memorials may be made to O.B. Nelson Post #3 American Legion or Heartland Humane Society.
