Where Sylvia and Manuel were married in 1995.

     For the first time, I’m experiencing life without Sylvia and I’m Floundering. We shared every stage of our lives: Celebrating the Joys, mourning the losses . We laughed, we cried , we challenged each other.                                      She was a role model for me. She was strong and brave, loving, giving,  caring. I will forever miss her smile,  her hugs , her. She was such  a phenomenal woman! What a blessing that she can once again hear every beautiful sound and she can dance, dance, dance! I love you, Sylv! 

Manuel, Matthew and Michael,

I am so saddened to learn of Sylvia's death.  She was one of my favorite people in Sequim, and I was sorry to hear that she was ill. I heard the news from Sylvia herself who had already diagnosed the illness before doctors confirmed. So like her to be ahead of everyone else! I know the many memories you have of her will be a comfort.

Peace and love,

Linda Cherry

I loved Sylvia a great deal AND I am horrible about staying in contact. Consequently, I am now kicking myself for not reaching out sooner. Sylvia was a marvel!  The lifelong learner that she was, seemingly thrived in performing research. UGH!  Something I, as I once shared with her, will never understand!  I learned a great deal from her and had great respect for her drive for education. She was soft-spoken, yet never feared voicing her thoughts and ideas doing so with grace and eloquence. The closest we were in friendship was when we were geographically the closest.  As I always have, I will continue to think of her often. I think the thing that would honor her the most would be for the rest of the "Riepe" clan to be better about staying in touch! I love you, Manuel! and you too, Michael, Matt, and Janet!!  My prayers and condolences to all of you!  Debbie Riepe Copple (and Curt!) xxxooo

Sylvia with her husband Manuel and their niece Beth Gonder

Sylvia with her sister Viola Gonder & their mother Helen Watkins

Sylvia with her niece Beth Gonder

Sylvia

You were such an amazing person and always so knowledgeable in life. I will miss you forever in my heart. Glad you are at peace. Love you, Amy

Even over forty years after den and syl parted I was pleased to have her still consider me her sister-in-law. Such a beautiful lady in every way,the world lost a genuine jewel