Sylvia Golke's Obituary
Sylvia Ann Golke, age 58, of Smithers British Columbia Canada, formerly of Waupaca, passed away Saturday, October 21st, 2006 in Smithers. Sylvia was born December 27, 1947, a slightly belated Christmas gift to her parents, Clifford and Doris Golke. Sylvia was the second in a large family of eight brothers and one much younger sister. Being the oldest girl in a loving, close-knit traditional country family, Sylvia’s role was to help her mother in the home. Sylvia’s education also began in the traditional country one room school. She excelled throughout her education, earning the graduation honor of Salutatorian and membership in the National Honor Society. Attending university in Wisconsin, she earned her B.A. in English and Journalism, and her M.A. in Library Science. For her 40th high school reunion booklet this year, Sylvia submitted: Back when I was about 7 years old, I vowed never to marry; I must have been serious, and instead I’ve substituted family life with pets; dogs, cats and horses. Well known for her love of animals, Sylvia had her first horse, Jennie, for 14 years from when the horse was 13 years old. Sylvia’s second horse, Kokanee, accompanied her throughout her moves in British Columbia. Sylvia was 28 when she left Wisconsin and moved to Smithers. She spent a bulk of her working life at Northwest Community College, mainly in the libraries in Terrace and Smithers. Crowning her career, Sylvia went to the Kootenays in 2004 to manage Kimberley Public Library. Retired, Sylvia returned to her beloved Smithers. It is fitting that she shared her last days with her sister Gina, overlooking the valley in rich, spectacular autumn colors with loyal Kokanee foraging in the foreground. She is survived by Sister: Jeanette (Roger) Golke, Waupaca; Brothers: Steve (Carol) Golke, Shawano; Paul (Diana) Golke, Waupaca; John (Anita) Golke, Waupaca; Jeff (Julie) Golke, Waupaca; David (Cathey) Golke; James (Debbie) Golke, Waupaca; Joseph (Debbie) Golke, Waupaca; Charles (s.f. Dawn) Golke, Waupaca; Special Friend: Jack Gillies, Dease Lake, BC, Canada. A Memorial Service was held at Holly Funeral Home, Waupaca, at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, November 11th, with Father Roy Geenen officiating. A.J. Holly & Sons LTD
526 S. Main St
Waupaca, WI. 54981
715-258-4020
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