We Remember

HEILIGER, Sylvia Anne (Cates)

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1932 – 2022

It is with deep sadness and much love that we mourn the passing of Sylvia Heiliger, in Kelowna, BC, on October 20th, 2022. With gratitude, grace and good spirits, she underwent many treatments, including a clinical trial which seemed to help slow/stop her Metastatic Nodular Melanoma, extending her life by 2 wonderful years. Sadly, the cancer snuck back with a vengeance and Sylvia passed away peacefully at home with her family at her side at the age of 90.

She will be dearly missed by her husband Robin; children Ian(Terry), Karen(Ray), Barbara(Ray) and Aleta(David); grandchildren Owein(Danielle), Julia(Ben), Liz‘Kit’(Laura), Bradley(Jessica), Leslie, Patrick, Janine(Dano) and Kerri(Michael); great-grandchildren Alena, Elsa, Pearl, Leo, and Sylvie; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her parents James and Helen Cates, and her two younger brothers Charlie and Jimmy.

Born in North Vancouver, Sylvia attended various schools in North Van and UBC. Sylvia and Robin recently celebrated their 70th anniversary and received a congratulatory letter from the Queen. Robin’s career in aviation took them to live in many cities across Canada. Sylvia always made friends and helped people in need wherever she went. While in Winnipeg she was hired by YMCA to teach the first class of women’s fitness with weights. They retired to Kelowna 35 years ago. Over the years Sylvia enjoyed participating in many activities including fishing, swimming, curling, downhill and cross country skiing, golf, Flying Farmer’s conventions, knitting Norwegian sweaters, learning to speak Norwegian, hiking, walking, mountain biking, Sudoku, Wordle and Facebook. She set a wonderful example for all of us. Her unconditional love surrounds us.

On behalf of the family, we would like to extend sincere gratitude to her doctors and staff for their excellent care that allowed her to remain in such wonderful shape and spirits.

At Sylvia’s request, no service will be held.

In lieu of flowers a donation to the Melanoma Network of Canada or BC Cancer Foundation.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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Melanoma Network of Canada or BC Cancer Foundation Link: www.melanomanetwork.ca, www.bccancerfoundation.com

 


 


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