Sylvia Elaine Columbia, an esteemed veteran and compassionate community member, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at Alpine Healthcare Center in Keene, New Hampshire. She was 86 years old and left a legacy of service, care, and dedication to her family and animals.
Born on October 27, 1939, in Springfield, Vermont, Sylvia was the daughter of the late Andrew and Iva (Burke) Salmond. She graduated from Springfield High School in 1957 and continued her education at Rutland Business College, where she focused on business and nursing. Following her studies, Sylvia enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps from 1958 to 1960, a commitment that she held with great pride throughout her life.
Career and Community Involvement
After completing her military service, Sylvia returned to Vermont and began working in the Nursing Department at Springfield Hospital. Her dedication to caring for others was evident in both her professional and personal life. She later joined Jones & Lamson Machine Company, where she worked as an electrician for 18 years and served as chief steward at the manufacturing plant. Sylvia was also an active member of the United Electrical and Machine Workers of America Local 218 and retired in 1983 due to health issues.
A passionate advocate for women in the military, Sylvia remained active in various veteran communities. In 2009 and 2010, she represented New Hampshire at the National Veterans Golden Age Games, competing in the 10 Meter Air Rifle over 65 division and winning a gold medal in 2010.
A Life Rich with Love and Joy
Sylvia was known for her love of animals, often opening her home to dogs, cats, and even goats and rabbits. Growing up on a farm instilled in her a lifelong affinity for animals. In addition to her affection for pets, she was an enthusiastic sports fan, attending numerous games and events to cheer on her children and grandchildren.
Gardening also brought joy to Sylvia’s life, particularly her stunning rose gardens, which were admired by many. Even in her later years, she maintained her competitive spirit, engaging in various activities that kept her active and involved.
She is survived by her three sons: John van Wezel, Jr. of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida; Robert van Wezel of Keene, New Hampshire; and William Lucius (and Donna Briggs) of Manchester, New Hampshire. Sylvia also leaves behind her sister-in-law Helen Salmond of Orange, California; three grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews across New York, California, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
No formal services are planned at this time. A military service will take place at Plain Cemetery in Weathersfield, Vermont, in the spring or summer, with a date yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Friends of Veterans at 28 Farmvu Drive, Suite 3, White River Junction, Vermont 05001, or to the New Hampshire SPCA at 104 Portsmouth Ave, Stratham, New Hampshire 03885.
