Phyllis (Roraback) Ostapko Bierce, 81, of Gay Street, Winsted, died Wednesday, February 3, 2010. She is survived by a sister, Gladys Roraback Anstett of Barkhamsted and will be missed by her many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, Gertrude and Earl Roraback; husband, Joseph Ostapko; husband, Carlton Bierce; brother, Earl Roraback, Jr.; sisters, Gertrude (Peggy) Prelli and Kathryn Millard.

Phyllis was a long time employee of W.T. Grant Company of Winsted and in later years was employed by Rexam Corporation and the Winsted Journal. A Golden Sheaf member of Riverton Grange #169, she was also a longtime leader of the Riverton Junior Grange and for many years was active in Mountain County Pomona Grange and the Connecticut State Grange.

She was a charter member of the Winsted Area Ambulance Association and served as a volunteer ambulance attendant for many years. In recent years, she continued her community service projects by knitting for the Riverton Congregational Church Prayer Shawl Ministry.

Friends may call on Friday, February 5, 2010 at Montano-Shea Funeral Home, 922 Main Street, Winsted from 6 - 8 PM. A service to celebrate Phyllis' life will be held on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at the Riverton Congregational Church at 11 AM. Donations may be made to: Winsted Area Ambulance Association, PO Box 56. Winsted, CT 06098. Visit an online guestbook at Montano-shea.com.