Sylvia Marie Kelpe

Sylvia was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on July 26, 1936, and was preceded in death by her husband Richard “Dick” Kelpe in 1996 (married in 1954). She was also preceded in death by her parents, Silvey and Mary Flannery, two brothers, Ralph Flannery and James “Jim” Flannery, and daughter-in-law Linda Kelpe. Sylvia is survived by her children, Steve Kelpe of Belton, MO, and Mary Lou Kelpe of Monterey, CA, as well as four grandchildren—Stewart Kelpe of Seattle, WA (wife Samantha “Sami”), Spencer Kelpe of Denver, CO (wife Rianna), Jessica Kelpe of Houston, TX, and Keely McDonald of Del Rey Oaks, CA (husband William “Liam”)—and four great-grandchildren, Isla Kelpe, Henley Kelpe, William "Willie" McDonald VI, and Kaia Kelpe.

Sylvia was a 1954 graduate of Southeast High School. She dedicated many years to raising her children before her 24 year career at Spofford Home where she worked alongside one of her childhood best friends, preparing home-cooked meals and creating a welcoming atmosphere for children and staff alike. The duo were once featured in the Kansas City Star for their warmth and culinary contributions. Sylvia retired in 2005.

Known for her sweet nature, generosity, and sense of humor, Sylvia was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She enjoyed reading, playing word games, jigsaw puzzles, crocheting afghans, watching TV and Royals baseball games, car rides, attending dinner playhouse shows, and spending time with lifelong friends filled with laughter.

A private graveside remembrance will be held at Newcomer’s Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, Kansas City, MO.

Sylvia’s unwavering love, kindness, and quick wit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all her family and friends.