Avis Filippi
February 29, 1924 — January 11, 2017
Avis Norma (Meers) Filippi ,92,of Hibbing, formerly of Keewatin died Wednesday January 11 at Home Sweet Home assisted living in Hibbing.
She was born in Bethel, MN to Alfred and Beatrice Meers on Leap Day, February 29, 1924 so has had only 23 birthdays! She was valedictorian of her St. Francis High School. She was very proud of her WWII service in the Marine Corps stationed at Camp Lejeune. Upon graduation from St. Cloud State, she took the highest paying teacher salary job and moved to Keewatin. She taught Physical Education, Health, and English. With girls sports starting up in 1972 she became a pioneer coach and advocate for girl’s sports, leading teams in volleyball, gymnastics, and track and field.
In 1949 she married Peter P. Filippi Jr.. He passed in 1996.
For 20 years after retirement she was a world traveler-visiting every continent except Antarctica. She swam with the Galapagos Island tortoises, experienced an African safari, along with many other adventures.
Avis was very involved in her Keewatin church-Congregation of the Good Shepherd, Scout leader, American Legion-marching in all the parades-and all Keewatin community activities.
She is survived by children Terry(Barb) Filippi of Hibbing; Kevin Filippi of Andover; Susan(Brian) Moody of Side Lake. Grandchildren-Richard (Nichole) Moody of Hibbing; Diana(Seth) Harvey of Eveleth; John(Maria)Skoy of Waconia; Rachel(Mike ) Broviak of Prior Lake; Evie (Lisa) Skoy of Boulder, CO. Great grandchildren-Mason Otis Harvey, Calvin, Natalia, and Aiden Skoy; Eloise and Leo Broviak. and special little friend-Elodie. Many wonderful nieces and nephews also
Sister Marly Pratt of Anoka, sister-in-law Marjorie Filippi of Chicago and Mary Jean Filippi of Little Falls
She was proceeded in death by her parents, Alfred and Beatrice Meers, siblings-Fern Jacobs, Marion Reber, Everett Meers, Warren Meers, and Richard Meers. and husband Peter Filippi
Memorials preferred to Congregation of the Good Shepherd; P>O> Box 95; Keewatin,MN 55753
A private family funeral was held with Pastor Renee Van Dyke officiating.. Please join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at Binsters from 11:00 am. - 2:00 pm.