Sylvia Allain

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sylvia Allain on Friday, June 12, at the age of 93. She died peacefully, surrounded by several family members. Pre-deceased by her husband, Grant Van Vliet, and several siblings, she leaves her sister Raymonde (Claude Bélair), several nieces and nephews, stepchildren, and many friends.

Following a fulfilling career as a teacher, Sylvia enjoyed her retirement to the fullest, spending most of her time with her sister, the late Jocelyne Carroll (late Walter Carroll); niece, Wendy (Don Jung); and great-nephew, Owen. She enjoyed visiting family and friends in New Brunswick every summer. For fun and exercise, she took up square-dancing, where she met her husband. They spent their winter months square-dancing in Texas, and Sylvia enjoyed sewing her dancing dresses.

The family thanks the staff at Ste. Anne’s Hospital and at St. Mary’s Hospital who cared for Sylvia while she was hospitalized with a pelvic fracture the past ten weeks.

Since Sylvia was fiercely independent into her nineties, the family suggests that those who wish to make a donation in her memory should consider HelpAge Canada, which supports local grassroots projects across the country that tackle isolation, deliver essentials, and help older adults age with dignity.

A private burial will take place at the Burtonville cemetery in Lacolle.