It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister. Sylvia Mae Thomson (Houdek) passed away, surrounded by her family, on February 2, 2021 at the age of 91.
Mom was born to William and Frances Houdek, on the family farm near Springwater on November 11, 1929. She attended Conway School and completed her high school at Springwater School. To further her education, she attended Normal School (Teachers’ College) in Saskatoon where she earned her teaching certificate. She taught at Rowena and Totnes Schools until she married Raymond Thomson on July 8, 1954 in Springwater. Ray and Sylvia took over the family farm and raised four children: Deborah, Denise, Dale and Derek. They continued their mixed farming operation of cattle and grain until their retirement in 1992. In 1996, they purchased a house in Biggar and moved to town.
Over the years, mom was involved in several organizations: Lydden Community Club; Duperow Curling Club; Lydden Multiple 4-H Club (general leader); Eastern Star (including Meals on Wheels); Daughters of the Nile; and New Horizons.
Mom loved sports whether she was a participant or a cheerleader; especially when her grandchildren were involved. These sports included curling, baseball, football, hockey, basketball and skating. Grandma was known to cheer loud and hard and to even disagree with some calls made by the officials.
Mom enjoyed travelling to Bermuda to spend time with her sister, to several parts of the United States for Eastern Star conventions, and from the West coast of Canada to the Maritimes. She especially enjoyed her visits with family and friends at Turtle Lake.
Mom had many interests throughout the years. Her favourites included dancing, gardening, taking care of her flowers, berry picking, knitting, crocheting and completing puzzles. She had two faithful companions, her dogs Michelle and Ben. Many will remember Sylvia taking Ben for walks around town to get exercise and to visit with the neighbours. In recent years, mom spent time playing cards with her regular crew of cardplayers.
Sylvia is survived by her children: Deborah (Verne) Robinson - Kyle (Mandy) Robinson and their children Quinton and Payton; Mya (Mason) Kaun and their children Rae and Dryden; Denise (Weldon) Barber - Lyndon (Whitney) Barber and their children Nova and Ryker; Lindsey Barber (Riley Wallace); Dale (Tracy) Thomson; Derek (Cindy) Thomson – Tyrus Thomson; and Brock Thomson. She is also survived by her sisters Mildred Landry and Gladys Zelenka; sister-in-law Myrle Houdek; numerous nieces and nephews; and lifelong friend Myrtle Robinson.
Sylvia was predeceased by her husband Raymond Thomson in 2002; sisters Blanche, Alma, Irene, Jane and brother Bill.
Mom will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She will forever be in our hearts and we will treasure our memories of her. Gerein Funeral Service is entrusted with arrangements. Tributes in Sylvia’s honour can be made to Biggar and District Health Centre - Long Term Care (Resident Activities) or Palliative Care.
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