Sylvia Vandenberg

She was born November 29, 1908 in Bangor, MN to the late Nestor and Tynne (Ranta) Turpanen. Following graduation from Biwabik High School in 1926, Sylvia came to Duluth and worked as a waitress at McDougal Terminal.

Sylvia married Gerrit Vandenberg on August 31, 1935, and they moved to Proctor, MN in 1942 where they lived for 55 years before they moved to St. Ann’s Assisted Living Center. They enjoyed 66 years together.

Sylvia and her husband were very active in Salem Covenant Church and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. They made numerous trips to Alaska on the Alcan Highway.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerrit Vandenberg; sons Joel and Douglas Vandenberg; daughter- in-law, Merdita Vandenberg; grandson, Gerrit Dean Vandenberg; and four sisters.

Survivors include two sons; Gerrit N. Vandenberg and Michael (Jeri) Vandenberg; daughter-in-law, Karen Vandenberg; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 8, 2013 at the Forest Hill Cemetery Chapel. Pastor David Peterson will officiate. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service in the chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Salem Covenant Church, 339 North 59th Ave. W, Duluth or St. Ann’s Residence, 330 E. 3rd Street, Duluth.