In her 55th year, Sylvia Penny passed peacefully in her home in Caledon, Ontario on Wednesday, May 6th, 2015 with her family by her side. Beloved mother of Brandon, Derek and Maya, her four-legged friend; adored daughter of Rita Lanch and the late Kurt Hefti; and cherished sister of Beatrice, Kurt and Jane. Sylvia also leaves behind countless friends and neighbours to whom the family is eternally grateful for their love and support.
The cremation has taken place. The family will receive their friends at Morningside Cemetery, Pine Avenue, Palgrave on Friday, May 15th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a private burial service.
Sylvia was a vet technician and a lover of all creatures. In lieu of flowers, Sylvia wishes that donations be made to the International Fund for Animal Welfare, 612 – 1 Rue Nicholas Street, Ottawa K1N 7B7; Hope for Wildlife, 5909 Highway 207, Seaforth, Nova Scotia B0J 1N0; or World Wildlife Fund, 245 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 401, Toronto M4P 3J1.
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Denise Taylor
My heart felt condolences go out to Sylvia’s entire family and furry friends! During this journey Sylvia’s fight to spend more time with us all was remarkable. As we remember and celebrate Sylvia’s life and precious memories, my hope and prayer is that her family will be able to carry on Sylvia’s wishes, with a positive outlook to the future, with her loving memories!
With Love and Warmest regards
Denise Taylor
Martha Walker
My sincere condolences.
Fran Barth
Thinking of Brandon and Derek at this sad time. My sincere condolences for your loss. May she rest in peace. She is up in heaven looking after all the furry friends. Hope you know how much you boys meant to her
Fran Barth & Family
Nancy Taggart
Sylvia….you were a voice for our 4 legged companions and ones who ran free, not one person who knew you ,around you could not see. You have shared your compassion for life and the living to all who were lucky enough to share a piece of your precious time on earth.You will be missed by everyone who knew your kindness. I will also continue all my work with the rescued animals and never turn down anything in need that crosses my path in your honor and I hope many will follow our mission .Please rest in Peace as your pain is over. I will guess that you are in heaven looking down upon us whispering your thoughts.If you go where all the Animals go I will see you there my friend one day.I’m saddened that you didn’t have more time with us all but I believe you will still be apart of all the people’s life you so greatly affected. You will Never be forgotten.
Barb Campbell & Richard Ehrlich
Sylvia was a beautiful human being, inside and out. She loved and cared for our dogs as if they were her own. She will always be known as “Auntie Sylvia” around our place. Our hearts go out to you all. She loved her sons and other family members so much.
Loretta Penny
Sylvia was the essence of kindness, compassion and positive energy! She lived life to the fullest, embracing her family, friends, animals, nature, travel, good wine, aged cheese, swiss chocolate and buttered croissants with passion. She aided any creature in need, from bears to tadpoles. Just last summer she delayed her pool opening so that tadpoles could mature into frogs in pockets of water on her pool cover. That was Sylvia! When faced with her illness she stepped up to the plate with grace, courage, dignity and strength that amazed all who joined her on her “journey”. Even with this cloud above her head, she still saw sunshine. Although she left us far too soon, she leaves behind wonderful memories for all who knew her; attributes we should all strive for; and two incredible sons, Brandon and Derek, who will carry on Sylvia’s beautiful legacy that will endure for eternity. Sleep well my “soul sista”! “Love you! Love you! Love you!” Loretta Penny and family
Ingrid Banks
My condolences to Brandon and Derek your mother thought the world of you boys.
Yvonne Bilbija
It was such an honour and privilege to know Sylvia and take walks with her and Maya in the fields behind Sylvia’s home. May Brandon and Derek find peace, love , and support from all those friends and family who knew and loved Sylvia. She will forever be in the hearts of all God’s creatures.
The Grogan Family (Terry, Bonnie, Troy & Connor)
We are shocked and saddened to hear the news of Sylvia’s passing. Her life was taken too soon but her passion and purpose was truly known to all who crossed her path. I had some beautiful conversations with her and she truly was such a kind hearted beautiful and strong woman. Troy and Derek were close friends while at Palgrave Public School and I am sure Troy will be have some great memories to share. Hugs to the family.
Chris Vernon
I would like to offer my thoughts and comfort to Sylvia’s family. She was a big help to my mother, Fran.
Chris Vernon
Ron Annabelle
My condolences, I feel reel hurt for the loss of a beautiful human being. She raised two wonderful boys, I am proud to say she was my friend.The world has lost a true compassionate person. The world needs more people like her.
Good bless Syl, Sleep well, We will always have you in our hearts.
The Annabelle family.
Andrea Coombs
So sad to hear of Sylvia’s passing and send my heartfelt condolences to the boys and all her family and friends . I worked with Sylvia at Wildcare a few decades ago caring for the wonderful wild creatures of fur and feather that needed our care. Sylvia was Wildcare in every sense of the word. She was tireless in all her efforts for the organization whether doing hands-on care of the animals as a vet tech, raising funds and as a member of the centre staff and board. It was an honor to have known and worked with her.
Nancy Martone
Our lives have been touched by someone special…….Sylvia, whom I nicknamed ‘Goo’ when we first met at 14 yrs old…..I thank you for sharing even a small part of your life’s journey with me…..how lucky am I? My memories of you, Jane and myself and others, will always give me a warm feeling, and bring an instant smile to my face. I will cherish and hold them close to my heart. Your courage, positive energy, and determination make us all want to strive to become better. Thank you for sharing your gifts with us. You will be loved by many and will be missed by all.
May your family and loved ones feel your love and spirit surrounding them through this difficult time.
With Love,
Nancy Martone
Larry Larson
My sincere condolences to Sylvia’s family. She will be missed.
Jane Cameron
My deepest condolences, Brandon. I am thinking of you and your brother at this very sad time. Although I never met your beautiful mother, she must have been a wonderful woman to raise such a kind and considerate young man. She opened her heart and home to all your friends.
With love, Jane.
Anne DeCraemer
So very sad to hear of Sylvia’s passing, my heartfelt condolences to her family. She was a passionate, beautiful, strong woman and I greatly admired her, for among many things, her love and respect of all animals.
With Love,
Anne, Devon, Delaine, Duncan, Darley and Trooper DeCraemer; and Mark Schiller
Abby Roy (Gomez)
My sincere condolences to Sylvia’s boys and family. It is a great loss of a beautiful, kind and compassionate person. Sylvia loved every living thing and gave them her unconditional nurturing. May her family be comforted by knowing how much we all cared for Sylvia. She will be missed greatly.
Paloma Plant
My condolences to Sylvia’s family at your loss. Sylvia had a beautiful heart and spirit. We have known each other for many years, from the early days of Wildcare onwards. Her love of wildlife was evident in all she did and she will be greatly missed by the rehab community. Paloma Plant
Sue Carstairs
Sylvia was a special soul – I had the privilege to work with her at Earth Rangers Wildlife Hospital, and I was so pleased we kept in touch. In fact, she had been volunteering out of her home as a turtle triage centre, for Kawartha Turtle Trauma Centre. I was so saddened to hear of her passing. My heart goes out to all family and friends; I know she will leave a huge void. A beautiful person in every way.
Myles & Veronica Maitland
Our sincere condolences to Sylvia’s family ….she will be missed ….
Lynne Kirsch
Having just heard of your loss I want to send my heartfelt wishes of support to your family.
Sylvia was my inspiration when I started at Wildcare Wildlife Centre in 1997. Her commitment, knowledge and total dedication inspired me.
I was able to keep in touch with Sylvia over the years through a mutual friend, Kim Gregor.
I am lucky to have met such an amazing human being! She continues to inspire.
My sincerest condolences,
Lynne
Kim Gregor
Deepest condolences to Sylvias family. May you find comfort in the memories you have of her. Sylvias compassion, kindness, caring and her work and dedication to the animals were all truly inspiring. Her strength of spirit was amazing. I am proud to have know her as a friend and an excellent one she was too. Thinking of her makes me smile. 🙂 Love ya Syl. Fly free.
Gail Atkinson
So sorry to hear of Sylvia’s passing. I played tennis with Sylvia for several years at the Palgrave Tennis Club. She was a great partner. One of our nicknames for her was “backboard” as it was almost impossible to get a ball by her. Every single ball would always come back. She was a lot of fun to play with and was so agile, fit and positive on and off the court. I will miss her. Sincerest condolences to her loved ones.
Monica & Derek Tiessen
We send our heartfelt condolences to Brandon, Derek and the entire family. Sylvia was a wonderful friend and an incredible person. I will always cherish the memories I have of playing golf with my dear friend. We shared so many beautiful moments together.
May all your memories hold you close during this difficult time.
Love, Monica & Derek
Tina Morrison
I am deeply saddened by the shocking news of Sylvia’s passing. I met Sylvia at the gym which we both went to. At that time her two boys were quite young and I remember she would drop everything to rush home to tend to her boys. They meant everything to her. I also remember visiting Cabos where she had her vacation house and both her and I went to volunteer to walk the orphaned dogs every day. She was a very caring, loving and a wonderful person. She will be missed. My condolences to her boys and her loving family for such a great loss.
Cheryl MacDavid
My heartfelt condolences.
Kathy Rohde
My darling Sylvia, you have been taken much too early my friend, God must have needed an angel at his side. I’ll always cherish the memories and adventures we had together; from our Thursday nights at Caledon Inn, to selling kettle corn, to our times at the cottage with the dogs, and to our trips to Florida, and to never knowing what dog would be sleeping beside me when I woke up at your house in the morning! You have had such a positive influence on my life, thank you and I know you know I will love you always. Derek, Brandon, I am so sorry for your loss, I hope you can find comfort knowing that your mom had such a positive impact on so many people and of course, the animals that she loved.
DeJulio Family
On behalf of our mom, Auntie Gracie and our family, we offer you our heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your mom. She was so pretty, so kind and so lovely. Brandon and Derek…..always be sure to take good care of yourselves, as that would make your mom happy and think often of all the happy times you had together.
You are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
Love Auntie Gracie , Maryanne , Annmarie and families
Steve Biagi
My Deepest Condolences To the Whole Family. I remember both Sylvia and Jane Fondly from our teenage years. Please know Jane that my Thoughts and prayers are with you after the loss of your sister.
Sharon & Glenn Moriarty
We are so sorry to hear the sad news about Sylvia. She was a such a kind and caring person. Sylvia thought of us when she was looking for a home for our beloved yellow lab “Charlie ” He has brought such joy to our lives just as Sylvia did to so many people and animals. Rest in peace Sylvia.
Krista Pedersen
I too, had the pleasure of working with Sylvia at Wildcare. She worked tirelessly raising money for wildlife, taking on the bingo shifts when no one else was willing. It was a magical time in our lives, and I’m so glad that Sylvia was a part of it. She will be missed!
Wendy Sunega
Sincere condolences to Sylvia’s family. I worked with Sylvia at Wildcare and learnt very quickly that she treated every being with love and compassion. She always spoke of her sons with love and pride and will be deeply missed by many. God speed Sylvia.
Jackie Jenkins
I am greatly saddened to have lost Sylvia as a fellow traveler. If only we could reverse the clock and go back to when she graced the world of Wildcare that we inhabited together. I would be able to treasure every minute and try to capture her brilliant light. She took on life and what was important to her with a uniquely plain, unquestioning commitment backed up with boundless compassion and energy. I know she gave her best to her boys and that they will always have her light with them to go forward with their lives.
JOHN & RUTH McNAB
OUR SINCERE CONDOLENCE TO SYLVIA’S FAMILY SHE WILL BE MISSED
OUR THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS TIME
SINCERELY
John & Ruth McNab
Caledon
Nicki Henderson
I was very sorry to hear of Sylvia’s passing. Brandon and Derek, I”m so sorry for your loss. She will be missed by many people.
Beverley Chipping DesRoches
Sincere condolences to all of Syvia’s loved ones and friends.
Maureen Barclay
I’m deeply saddened to hear of this terrible loss. I was lucky enough to work with Sylvia at Wildcare and Earth Rangers and greatly appreciated her dedication to the animals for which we cared.
My sincere condolences to her friends and family. I know she’ll be greatly missed.
Csilla Darvasi
I was so sorry to hear about Sylvia’s struggle and even sorrier to hear that she is gone. I worked for many years with Sylvia at Wildcare. She served on the board, as a fundraiser, and as the most amazing animal rescuer I know. No-one but Sylvia could practically march into the middle of a large pond and walk away with an injured Great Blue Heron tucked neatly under her arms. Sylvia had a huge heart for all..and any animal that flew, climbed, swam, or slithered was a focus of her compassion. You will sorely be missed Sylvia and my heart goes out for those who will be left in this world without her.
Len and Cindy Scianitti
We met Sylvia just a few years ago while walking our dogs in Palgrave. She was such a warm, compassionate person and her wonderful stories about her sons and her adopted friend Maya warmed our hearts. She will be missed by many. Our sincere condolences.
Todd Hrycyna
My deepest condolences to Sylvia’s family. It has been many years since I have seen Brandon and Derek, I have heard they have grown to be handsome, well mannered young men. As brothers you will be able to lean on each other for the strength you need to move on without your loving Mother. It is comforting to know she will be up in Heaven continuing to look after all the pets we have all lost over the years, there could not be a better person to look in on them all. God Bless all friends and family affected by this loss.
Angela Giger, CH-Zürich
Sylvia meine allerliebste und treue Freundin.
Schweren Herzens und tief erschüttert muss ich von dir Abschied nehmen.
Über 40 Jahre lang haben wir hin und her geschrieben, uns Geschichten und Erlebnisse aus unserem Alltag erzählt und uns am Leben des anderen teilnehmen lassen.
Von ganzem Herzen möchte ich dir für diese lange, einzigartige und schöne Freundschaft danken.
Keine Distanz und nichts auf der Welt konnte unsere Verbundenheit trennen.
Du warst nie fern und immer ganz nah bei mir im meinem Herzen – und das wird auch immer so bleiben.
Merci merci für diese wunderschöne Zeit die wir zusammen verbringen durften.
Du warst ein Eingel auf Erden, ein faszinierendes wunderschönes und grossherziges Wesen.
Unermüdlich hast du dich für hilfslose Geschöpfe eingesetzt und so vielen das Leben gerettet.
Die Tierwelt weint um dich. Ich weine um dich.
Meine liebe tapfere Sylvia, dies sind meine letzten Zeilen an dich, wohin deine Reise auch geht du wirst immer bei mir in meinem Herzen sein.
Ich werde dich nie vergessen und dich sooo vermissen.
Machs gut meine beste Freundin.
Grosse Umarmung.
Love forever
Angela
Meine aufrichtige Anteilnahme und tiefstes Beileid gehen an Brandon und Derek, die ganze Familie Heft, Rita, Beatrice, Curd und Jane
Es tut mir unsagbar Leid welchen Schicksalsschlag ihr erleiden müsst, ich weiss mit welchen tiefen Schmerz das verbunden ist.
Ich sende euch viel Trost und viel viel Kraft.
Meine Gedanken sind bei euch und Sylvia.
In tiefer Trauer und viele Grüsse von Herzen
Angela
Stella Pitcher
My heartfelt condolences to Sylvia’s family especially to her beloved sons Brandon and Derek and her mother Rita. So sorry for your loss. I have known Sylvia for 15 years and will remember her as a devoted Mom who dearly loved her boys. She was also caring and compassionate to everyone and a lover of all creatures. Whether it was protecting a turtle while it crossed the road ,putting a heating pad on her front step for a wild cat to sleep on winter nights , or picking up an injured raccoon from the road and taking him to a wildlife centre, she came to the rescue of every animal in need. I will also remember Slyvia for her love of tennis, skiing and rollerblading having enjoyed many hours of each with her. Sylvia was taken from this life way too soon and will be sadly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing you.
Nadia White
A beautiful, genuine, caring, compassionate, welcoming and positive woman, who enjoyed life and still stayed positive through her trials. It was always such a pleasure and delight to chat with Sylvia and to hear her stories of our own furry friends whom she would watch over. I am so deeply saddened to hear of her passing and wish there was another chat to have, a walk in our woods and the offer for the girls to swim in your pool. You are one of the most loveliest people I have known, You will be truly missed Sylvia. Our deepest condolences to Brandon, Derek and the rest of Sylvia’s family and friends.
Nadia, Rob, Makaylah and Vanessa White
Jane, Peter, Chris & Jen Heron
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Derek. May you live with many happy memories of your Mom.
Nancy Leerentveld
Brandon, Derek & Family,
I was so sad to hear about the loss of your mom, Sylvia. She was a good friend of ours from Tennis and I will miss her smiling face and nice talks that we would have together. After seeing her at Christmas, doing so well, we were very shocked to know that she had passed away and we are so sorry that she has been taken away from you. I know how much she loved her boys and would often talk about you both. We shared a great love for animals and she was glowing with a kind and gentle soul. Please accept our deepest sympathy at this very difficult time. Nancy & Ray Leerentveld & Family.
Scott and Caitlin Ford
There are some people with whom is does not take more than a few interactions to realize that they are a truly good person with a heart of gold. Sylvia was one of those people. Our dog Bunk will miss his visits!
Our condolences to Sylvia’s family.
Tracey Murray
I am so sorry to hear of your leaving this earth as we know it and have joined all the gratefuls in heaven that you have helped –
I know you not well, Ashley went to school and was friends with Brandon and you I played a few golf games with… You seemed such a calm and caring person –
My thoughts go out to the boys and all you have left behind which I’m sure you will always look over!
Sincerely Tracey, Bob, Ashley and Brenden Murray
lori leckie
I have to say that hearing the news of Sylvias passing has left me unbelievably shaken and shocked. What a beautiful person she was. Her love of nature and wildlife, her healthy living and passion for saving turtles. I’m so sorry for your families loss. What a gracious woman, a timely beauty, and a warm and wonderful soul.
Nancy Morrison
I am truly sad to hear of Sylvia’s passing and my thoughts are with Derek and Brandon at this time . Know that your mom will be remembered by us as a compassionate and kind soul who cared for our “Jake” as one of her own four legged friends. She even allowed him to sleep in her bed to ease his anxiety.