June 16, 1919 - June 6, 2011

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our cherished mother, grandmother, auntie and friend, Sylvia just ten days before her 92nd birthday.

Sylvia leaves her son Don Hill (Penny) of Vernon and three grandsons, Jody, Sean and Kevin Hill. Sylvia also leaves her step daughter-in-law Anita Olsen and Anita's children Adrienne and Desmond (Eriko) Olsen; as well as her step daughter Shelley Reeves and Shelley's children Samantha and Jackie Reeves. In addition Sylvia leaves six devoted nieces and nephews and their families: Sylvia Heath, Jerry Latvala (Kay), Eddie Latvala (Jackie), Ann Lewis (Earl), Sandra Gerrard and Audrey Vaile.
Sylvia was predeceased by her husband Philip Olsen, her daughter Carol Hill, her sister Siiri and Siiri's husband Gus Latvala, her niece Shirley Latvala, her mother Sandra Honkanen and Sandra's husband Richard; her brother Oiva Saatela, her father John Saatela and her stepson Garry Olsen.

Sylvia was born in Rossland, BC and educated in Kimberley before moving to Vancouver as a young woman. She married and worked with her first husband Jack Hill on fishing boats before raising her two children. After her children were grown, she returned to Kimberley and married her high school sweetheart, Philip. They lived in Kimberely until Phil passed away in 1998. In 2003, Sylvia made her final move to Kamloops, to be more centrally located to all family. Niece Audrey Vaile and great niece, Sherry Robinson continued to provide support to Sylvia in her final years.

Family often referred to Sylvia as "our special lady". She shared many stories of adventuring outdoors camping, hiking and skiing. She enjoyed dancing, and travelling and maintained a very limber body by practicing yoga. She was also appreciated for passing on her Finnish heritage and family memories.

Sylvia was always fully engaged with life and a passionate animal lover, especially her beloved cats. She devoted many hours of volunteer time in all of the communities she lived in and was always willing and able to help her family and friends. Sylvia was very friendly, taking time to relate to people of all ages and made many friends throughout life.

By Sylvia's request, there will be no service.
Any remembrance donations, may be made to the SPCA, 1211 - 8th Street, Kamloops, BC V2B 2Y3.

Condolences may be expressed at:
www.schoenings.com