Sylvia M. Neal's Obituary
Sylvia Mendora Blomelie Neal
Sylvia Mendora Blomelie Neal peacefully passed away on March 7th while in the loving care of Franciscan Hospice in University Place, Washington. Sylvia was 88 years old and a 14 year resident of Gig Harbor, Washington at the time of her death.
Sylvia was born December 9, 1923 in Ryley Alberta Canada to Olaf and Nellie Blomelie. She was third in a family of four girls. Lillian, Helen, Sylvia, and Betsey were best friends and enjoyed singing in quartets during their youth. Sylvia's parents came to the United States where her father attended St. Olaf's Seminary in Minnesota.
Sylvia's childhood was filled with exciting experiences and opportunities. Her family traveled to many areas of the United States and Canada. Every new ministry calling would create a deeper bond to this strong Lutheran family. Sylvia and her sisters truly enjoyed sharing life stories and experiences while growing up as "pastor's kids". Eventually the family settled in Tacoma, WA. Sylvia attended Pacific Lutheran College where her travels continued while singing in the Choir of the West.
On October 4, 1947 Sylvia married Malcolm Neal. They were married 50 years. Together they raised 3 children in Tacoma, WA. Widowed in 1997, Sylvia moved to the waterfront in Gig Harbor, WA. Sylvia was an amazing seamstress and an avid reader who enjoyed studying other cultures and philosophies. Her political topics created strong and healthy discussions. In addition to helping manage the family business, Sylvia had a remarkable desire to volunteer her time helping others. Many of her accomplishments include several years as a Red Cross Volunteer during the Viet Nam War, assisting struggling students with reading, teaching Sunday school as well as being an active church member and assisting in a variety of Christian events. Her love of Christian and classical music was apparent. She sang in her church choir and was an accomplished pianist and organist. Sylvia was a true and faithful Christian.
Sylvia's surviving immediate family include, son Thomas Neal , Gig Harbor WA, daughter and son in law, Barbara and Gary Hope , Sammamish WA, and daughter and son in law Beth and Bob Crain , Port Orchard, WA . Her grandchildren Matthew Crain, Alexandra Hope and Grant Hope will miss her greatly.
Sylvia was preceded in death by her sister Betsey Dorris. Her surviving sisters are Lillian Ferguson, Tacoma, WA and Helen Dennis, Portland, OR. Her existing extended family includes a variety of cousins, nieces and nephews.
A private burial service will be held at Mountain View Funeral Home 4100 Steilacoom Blvd. SW, Lakewood, WA 98499.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday March 13, 2012 at 1:00 at United Lutheran Church 1231 South 76th St. Tacoma, WA 98404.
Donations can be made to Franciscan Hospice House 2901 Bridgeport Way W. University Place, WA 98466-4631.
Blessed be her memory.
Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home.
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