In loving memory of…

Sylvia Serafin (née Vincent) born 9 April 1927, who died peacefully at Mount St. Mary Hospital in Victoria, BC on 3 July 2020.

Predeceased by husband John F Serafin (1925-1986) and sons Bruce (1950-2007) and Michael (1952-1982). She will be sadly missed by surviving children Rennie, Laurie, Mark, and Sonya; grandchildren Leon, Aldea, Manuel, Shannon, and Marcel; sisters Annette, Melvina, and Eva; and brothers Romeo and Roger.

Sylvia was born into a large family, having 14 siblings. Growing up on a farm, she recounted many happy childhood memories—stories her children and grandchildren loved to hear. Marrying her husband John in 1946, she began an adventurous life that would take her to numerous cities across Canada and the USA. John’s career as a chemical engineer meant they would move often. As their family grew, Sylvia embraced homemaking. Her sense of style, design, and elegance was most evident in the beautiful and welcoming homes she created. Interior design would become a lifelong passion. Sylvia also valued her friends. With every move, she developed lifelong friendships quickly, which she sustained throughout her life. The value of letter writing never left her. Most of all though, Sylvia believed in the power of knowledge and education, always encouraging her children to dream large, travel, and expand their lives—a legacy she passed on to her grandchildren.

Sylvia lived a full and rich life. She will be remembered by all who loved and knew her for her spirit, generosity, and love of family and friends.

The family would like to thank the staff at Mount St. Mary Hospital—especially the care aides—who provided exceptional care to our mother and grandmother.  Condolences may be offered to the family below.

<script src=”https://fast.wistia.com/embed/medias/p55b1g1enr.jsonp” async></script><script src=”https://fast.wistia.com/assets/external/E-v1.js” async></script><div class=”wistia_responsive_padding” style=”padding:56.25% 0 0 0;position:relative;”><div class=”wistia_responsive_wrapper” style=”height:100%;left:0;position:absolute;top:0;width:100%;”><div class=”wistia_embed wistia_async_p55b1g1enr videoFoam=true” style=”height:100%;position:relative;width:100%”><div class=”wistia_swatch” style=”height:100%;left:0;opacity:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:0;transition:opacity 200ms;width:100%;”><img src=”https://fast.wistia.com/embed/medias/p55b1g1enr/swatch” style=”filter:blur(5px);height:100%;object-fit:contain;width:100%;” alt=”” aria-hidden=”true” onload=”this.parentNode.style.opacity=1;” /></div></div></div></div>

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

  • Tracy

    To my dear cousins, It is only now I hear of your mother’s passing. I can only hear all the “Vincent” sisters singing her into the arms of Jesus and how they must have rejoiced to see one another again. Blessings, Tracy Madden-Legall

  • Claudine Russell

    Dear Sonya and family,
    My deepest condolences to all of you. I spent so many ‘sleepovers’ at her home and have so many wonderful memories of those times and other trips. She went out of her way to make me feel special and I will never forget that. It helped me come out of my shell. I loved her design sense, her stories and her unforgettable personality. She will be missed!
    Love,
    Claudine, Rob, Nicole & Jordan

  • Reg & Alison Eland

    It was with great sadness that we read of your mom’s passing. Our families shared such a wonderful and long-lasting friendship, going back to the 60’s. Our mothers, Gerry & Sylvia, remained close friends from the time they met. We are thinking of you all and happy to have such great memories of a special lady.

  • Mona Wood

    Laurie, Rennie, Sonya, Leon, Aldea, Shannon and Family,
    I am truly sorry for your loss. From my memories of Sylvia, she was so lovely. My condolences to all of the family.
    Love to you.
    Mona

  • Carolyn Greeniaus

    Gord and I would like to send our sincere condolences to Sylvia’s family. We knew Sylvia for about 8 years when she lived in The Legacy. We enjoyed seeing her at the condo parties and also at luncheons with our mutual friend, Anne-Marie. We also visited her at her next Landmark apartment and then, later at Berwick Royal Oak. I remember her elegance and she was always so gracious. Her stories were fascinating.

    If a picture album is started, we have some nice pictures of her to share.

    Sincerely,
    Gord and Carolyn Greeniaus

  • K. Louise Vincent

    Dear Laurie, Rennie, Sonja and family. Aunty Sylvia was such a wonderful and elegant woman. What a lovely tribute to her. As sisters, Sylvia and Alice shared a real friendship, which my mom cherished. Deepest condolences from my family.

    K. Louise Vincent

  • Kate Richards

    Dear Sonja – Chris and I read of your mother’s passing today in the Vancouver Sun. Although neither of us had the pleasure of meeting your mom I am sure you will miss her greatly. Our sincere condolences.

    Chris & Kate Richards

  • Karen Louise Reecke

    Rennie, Laurie and family. I was very sorry to read your mom’s obituary in the Vancouver Sun today. I don’t think I met your mom but I certainly remember the two of you through Glenmore and Sentinel and often think of you and wonder how you’re doing. Again, I’m so sorry for your loss. love Karen Reecke

  • Gillian Johnson

    Such a beautiful tribute to a beautiful woman. We will miss your amazing and wonderful mother/grandmother/great-grandmother.
    Love and peace to all of you. Lots of love always, Gillian, Jeff, Eric and Andrea

  • Bonita Russell

    I only got to meet Sylvia for a short time on vacation but found her delightful. Sonya I am so sorry but knowing you have such great memories will be a blessing Bonnie and Henry

Leave Condolence

Type your condolence message into the box below and click "Submit". It may take up to 24 hours for it to appear. Your email address will not be published.

*

Search Website

ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR