She was born on January 4, 1934, in Jasper County, IL, to Joseph and Minnie Geltz. Sylvia married Henry Lester Brinkoetter on February 7, 1959 in St. James Catholic Church in Decatur, IL. Les passed away in 1993.
Sylvia moved to Springfield in 2000 from Decatur, where she was an active member of St. James Catholic Church. After moving to Springfield she was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church, Altar and Rosary, Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, AAPR Chapter 195 – Springfield, CTK Over 50 Club, and CTK Ladies Coffee Group. Sylvia was a big fan of NASCAR former #24 driver, Jeff Gordon.
She leaves a son, Alan (wife, Susan); and grandchildren, Katelyn and Grace; several nephews, nieces, and cousins; and many friends.
Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Maynard, Gerald, Charles, and Delbert; and sister, Margie.
The family would like to thank her caregivers Bonnie Ray, Melissa Ray, the staff of Trustwell Living Center in Springfield and the Bridge Care Suites in Springfield for their compassionate care given to Sylvia.
Visitation and Funeral Mass: Family will receive friends from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. on Friday, July 19, 2024, at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1930 Barberry Dr., Springfield. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:00 a.m., with Frs. Fredrick Chima Mbeire and Alex McCullough concelebrating.
A private burial will take place at Mt. Gilead Cemetery in Decatur.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Christ the King Catholic Church or St. James/St. Patrick Catholic Parish of Decatur.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.
