Sylvia Adel 1944 - 2014

On Sunday May 18th I stopped to visit my sister Sylvia.  We had known she was dying for some time.  We spoke for about 15 minutes.  When she laid her head down to sleep, I told her I would leave as I knew she was tired.  As I walked out the door, our last words to each other were "I love you".  She never woke up.

Her husband Del was by her side for the last 27 years, as tireless companion, protector, caregiver, and best friend.  He took care of her like no one else could.  They were truly made for each other and I am so happy she found him.  Del's ticket to heaven was punched years ago.  Sylvia now awaits his arrival.

03/23/2014

Sylvia,

Happy Birthday! It occurs to me that I've never properly thanked you for the positive influence you had on my life.

I fondly recall the days of my youth and you had no small part in that. You were truly like a second mother to me. I won't speak for Dave but I'm sure he feels the same way. You always looked out for us and you always encouraged us (and whatever possessed you, I can only imagine!).

You were always buying us things that we really wanted but were unable to coerce mom into buying for us. I remember countless trips to the store in Walnut for school clothes for both Dave and I, financed by you. 

All I had to do was mention that I needed 20 bucks for something and your already spotless car would (surprise!) need a good wash/wax/vacuuming. And you let me believe that I had provided a needed service and "earned" the money.

Anytime I needed "wheels" you let me borrow yours and you always had a hot setup. I have fond memories of your 68 El Camino, 70 Chevelle, 75 and 77 Cutlasses, 79 Camaro. Always the coolest ride around.

For a brief period as an adolescent, I developed an improbable and inexplicable taste for parsley. Yes, parsley. Rather than chide me for my immature obsession, first chance you got, at a sit down restaurant, you ordered me a "side" of parsley. The waitress was gob smacked but I got my parsley. What sister EVER so indulged her snot nosed little brother? And what snot nosed little brother ever deserved it less?

And over the years as different crises popped up in all our lives, you always were there to help. No one ever had to ask you. You are the most selfless person I know.

And I guess more than anything, I remember your unwavering moral compass, undoubtedly the strongest I've ever seen. You have always been a great role model.

For all the love and attention you showed me, the truth is that I didn't deserve it and I have yet to earn it. But that never stopped you. You have been a great sister to me and for that I shall always be grateful.

For being you, I love you and I always will.