"I admired Virginia because she was an independent woman who went down to Lakewood to live by herself.  Not a lot of people can do that.  She did what she wanted to do when she wanted to do it.  She will be missed by all her children and grandchildren." Barbara A. Szot, Rockaway, N.J.

Eulogy for Virginia Sylvanovich, my mother:

Although she was the youngest of 8 Irish siblings, my mother was one of a kind.  A depression era child, she knew hardship and struggle, and those challenges were integral in developing who she was to become.  They forged her sense of realism, simplicity and practicality.  We all remember her response in her later years when asked what she wanted for her birthday, "If I can't eat it or wear it I don't want it!"    She was honest and spoke her mind.

Mom had great mental strength, determination and a strong sense of independence.  Those traits, combined with her vitality and energy, found us forever racing to keep up with her as she shopped at the mall.  


She was a really fun mom to grow up with. She spent quality time with the children and at times was practically one of us.  On rainy days we built indoor tents and had tea parties.  We'll never forget her sense of adventure and spontaneity when she piled us all in the car for hours of driving on endless wooded roads never knowing where we would end up.  She retained her youthfulness despite being 86 years old.  She was carefree, still always laughing, joking and teasing.

Her determination persisted later in life: even as her breathing became more difficult, she refused a walker or a wheel chair and still tried to move as quickly as her body would allow.  The only time she accepted a wheel chair was so that she could navigate more easily amongst her beloved slot machines at the casinos.   When my sister Ann bought her a cane, she returned it and said what she really wanted was an Irish Shillelagh (Irish walking stick)!    Most of all, our mother was generous, loving and devoted to her children.  For me, she was my role model, my hero and continues to be my inspiration.  

Michael and Robert; Christopher, Michael, Joseph, and Olivia:  you are our mother's, your grandmother's legacy.  I know that she wishes the best that life can bring to you.  And I ask that you use the gift that she gave to all of us, the gift of humor and laughter.  Because "When Irish eyes are smiling, you can hear the angels sing."

Mom we will all miss you.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. I have fond memories of Virgina from childhood. Her favorite saying to me was "Hey Eric, ya have buck" she loved playing cards and often made time to play with us. She always included me in holidays and family vacations.  She was my second mom...I am sorry I am unable to attend, I will never forget you Virginia and you will always have a special place in my heart.

OBITUARY

Virginia Sylvanovich

November 17, 1923 – July 31, 2010

D'Elia Funeral Home

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