Sylvia BETHLEHEM

BETHLEHEM, Sylvia August 29, 1942 - August 16, 2008 Sylvia Bethlehem, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully with daughter Christina Bethlehem-Mason at her side on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at the age of 65 years. Sylvia's husband, children and grandchildren were with her faithfully while Sylvia fought her illness with amazing courage every single day. She was a very strong willed and caring woman who, even in her final days, only worried about her husband and children and never herself. Sylvia met her beloved Mike as a young woman in Courtland, ON at Little Joes and they were married later that year in 1960. In 1980 Sylvia, Mike, David, and Christina moved to Alberta. Mike Jr. and Colleena soon followed with their spouses to be with their family. Sylvia wanted to see and live in the Rocky Mountains and to pursue her dream of being a Country and Western singer. Many people in Calgary will remember Sylvia as the fun and full-of-life singer of "Sylvia and her Country Gentleman". Sylvia was well-known around Calgary at many venues such as Royal Canadian Legion Branches, Army and Navy Club as well as many other public and private functions. She and her band played the Calgary Stampede in the late 1980's and also the ever-growing "Ride for Sight". Sylvia, the little lady that she was, stood out with her powerful voice along-side Mayor Ralph Klein in the sea of bikers showing their support for the cause. Sylvia and her band recorded a single, "Lock The World Out" which, although it was not marketed, was a huge hit with all fans and followers of the band. Sylvia's second home was stage performing and it showed with every performance she gave. Sylvia will remain with all of us for love itself and her spirit will live on forever. Sylvia will be dearly missed by her loving husband, children, family and friends. Besides her loving husband Mike, Sylvia is survived by her four children and their families, son Mike (Wanda - predeceased) Bethlehem Jr., and their son Michael, daughter Colleena Bethlehem and her daughters Angel and Chantel, son David (Loretta) Bethlehem and their daughter Micaela, and daughter Christina Bethlehem-Mason. A private family Service will be held Friday, August 22, 2008. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com . In living memory of Sylvia Bethlehem, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek Chapel, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E. Telephone: 403-256-9575. Published in the Calgary Herald on 8/20/2008