Sylvia Francisca Maria Elizabeth Altmann

April 18, 1956 – September 22, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sylvia Altmann (née Mandl) on September 22, 2025, following a sudden stroke at the age of 69. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family.

Sylvia Altmann, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, lived a life full of love, grace, and laughter. She was born in Calgary, Alberta, on April 18, 1956, to Theodore and Erna Mandl, who immigrated from Germany in 1955 to begin a new life in Canada. In 1958, the family moved to Willard Lake, Ontario and Sylvia spent much of her childhood at her parents’ roadside store and hotel, where she learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and quiet determination that guided her throughout her life.

Sylvia and Bernie’s journey began in 1976, and from their marriage in 1978 grew a life rich with love, joy, and adventure. Their home on Lake of the Woods was the heart of that story, a sanctuary where together they found peace in the beauty of the water and the warmth of the sunsets, reflecting the steadfastness of their devotion. Together, they wove a life of joy and companionship. Their love deepened with every passing year and stands as a lasting testament to a life fully celebrated together.

Sylvia was the proud mother of two sons, James and Michael. Nine years apart, each brought her a different kind of happiness. James carried himself with quiet steadiness that filled her with pride, while Michael, ever the mischief-maker, kept her laughing, exasperated, and endlessly entertained. Their accomplishments, big and small, filled her heart throughout life.

With steadfast grace and courage, Sylvia moved through life’s challenges in a way few ever realized. Her strength was quiet but profound, and she never allowed hardship to overshadow her care for others.

Sylvia and Bernie shared a love of travel, exploring the world together. Their adventures took them to Hawaii, Europe, Australia, and Fiji, with countless cruises in between, with each journey adding to a lifetime of lasting memories. Sylvia carried these adventures home, happily sharing the stories with friends and family and weaving her travels into the fabric of everyday life. Yet, just as much as she loved faraway places, she treasured the simple joys of home; quiet games of cribbage with Bernie and the slow rhythm of lake life.

Her garden brought her its own kind of joy and she was thrilled to finally have an above-ground garden to expand her growing adventures. Despite all her careful planning, her plants sometimes grew in mysterious ways, which became part of the fun. Regardless, she tended to it proudly, celebrating each harvest, whether a basket full or just enough beans for a single snack, if you were willing to share.

Her family often laughed with her about the kitchen. Sylvia was a talented cook who expressed her love through her meals, though baking was never her strong suit. Bernie always celebrated her efforts with a smile and an encouraging, “Good job, Sylvia,” appreciating the love she poured into every dish. Remi was more direct, telling her “Oma, you’re a good cook, but desserts…meh!” Still, Sylvia ensured her family was never without sweets, keeping a ready stock of pastries and candies, most famously in her “snackle box.” Trips to Winnipeg were never complete without a stop at the bulk store to refill it, ensuring every compartment was brimming with treats.

Sylvia had a wonderful knack for finding humour in daily life. She often got flustered when she couldn’t hear clearly, despite having invested in top-of-the-line hearing aids that she stubbornly refused to use. She was also famously obsessed with Pinterest, especially saving recipes on her iPad, though very few, if any, ever made it to the table, much to her family’s amusement.

Sylvia’s grandchildren were the light of her life, each affectionately called “Schatzi.” She loved their energy and enjoyed every mischievous moment with them. She was thrilled to have taken Remi to Niagara Falls for her 10th birthday and was plotting a repeat trip. Miller, always getting into trouble, kept her on her toes and had a way of making her laugh no matter what he was up to. Sylvia had also been looking forward to teaching Malin how to drive next month, a moment that will now remain only in memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Erna; her aunt, Francine; her grandchild, Ari; and her in-laws, Fritz and Rose.

Family was her greatest pride. She leaves behind her husband, Bernie; her two sons, James (Vichit) and Michael (Cassidy) and her three grandchildren Malin, Remi, and Miller. She also leaves many extended family members, all of whom held her dear and will carry her memory in their hearts.

Sylvia’s friendships were enduring and far-reaching. She continued to enjoy lunches, laughter, and gatherings with friends up until her passing.

Sylvia’s warmth, resilience, and laughter will forever live in the hearts of those she loved. She found joy in life’s little surprises and had a gift for making ordinary moments feel truly special. Every visit, every conversation, every shared smile with her family and grandchildren became a cherished memory. In leaving us, she has given us a timeless gift of a life lived fully, graciously, and with endless love. Her spirit will continue to inspire us, her laughter will echo in our hearts, and the love she shared will remain a part of us every day.

At Sylvia’s request, cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life will be held at Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre on October 21, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Following the service, all are invited to share memories and a luncheon. Interment will follow at Lake of the Woods Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest near her parents.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the charity of your choice in Sylvia’s name.