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Sylvia Illyes

1932 - 2023

Sylvia Illyes obituary, 1932-2023, Fort Worth, TX

BORN

1932

DIED

2023

FUNERAL HOME

Martin Thompson & Son Funeral Home

6009 Wedgwood Drive

Fort Worth, Texas

Sylvia Illyes Obituary

Sylvia Illyes
December 31, 1932 - July 18, 2023
Fort Worth, Texas - Sylvia Judith Marlise Illyes (née Bautz) passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 18, 2023, at the age of 90 after a long illness. Sylvia led a remarkable life, the first half in Europe and the second half in Fort Worth, Texas.
Our beloved matriarch, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother was born in the former Austro-Hungarian Empire (Novi Vrbas, now Serbia) to Philipp and Margit Bautz (née Bay-Petroczy) on December 31, 1932. She grew up speaking German and Hungarian and had a happy and carefree childhood until 1944, when the Russian army advanced towards her hometown as the German army was retreating. Her parents, wealthy business and landowners, had no choice but to flee the "red menace" and eventually settled in West Germany. Having lost his business and landholdings, Sylvia's father, a kind and brilliant businessman, soon became successful again, which allowed Sylvia to study and travel throughout Europe. She lived in Finland for several years and eventually became a translator and skin care expert, whereas her brother Anton (Tony) emigrated to the US and became a major in the U.S. Air Force.
Sylvia met her husband, Elémer von Illyés in 1956 in Heidelberg, West Germany. Elémer was an attorney, businessman, author and Hungarian diplomat who emigrated to Brazil (and became a naturalized citizen) after World War II, as Europe lay in ruins. This particular business trip to Germany would change everything for both. Sylvia swept her future husband off his feet with her beauty, charm, intelligence, fluency in four languages, not to mention her beautiful legs! Sylvia was equally enamored with her future husband's intellect, worldliness, accomplishments and fluency in eight languages. Elémer was the love of her life and after marriage, they had three sons, born in Mannheim, Germany: the eldest, Steve (István), Alexander (Béla) and Peter.
Because Brazil and Portugal had reciprocal migration, and because Elémer longed for the ocean and warmer climate, the family moved to Portugal in 1965. They chose the seaside resort of Estoril and built a boutique hotel overlooking the ocean. Weekends and summers were spent at the family's estate in the mountains of nearby Sintra and, during the schoolyear the two eldest sons, Steve and Alexander, attended Stella Matutina, a Jesuit boarding school in Feldkirch, Austria. Sylvia would later say that this was the happiest time of her life! But political trouble was on the horizon.
On April 25th, 1974, a military coup overthrew the authoritarian regime of Portugal and, effectively, ended the Portuguese Empire. This produced major social, political and economic turmoil and-regrettably-broke up the family. While Elémer waited out the troubles in Germany, Steve, the oldest, decided to follow his father's footsteps by emigrating to Brazil. Things became unbearable in Portugal, so on June 8th, 1975, Sylvia, along with Alexander and Peter (and their dog Jolly) arrived at the newly built Dallas/Fort Worth Airport as political refugees, generously sponsored by Sylvia's brother Tony, the Air Force major. Sylvia's mother, Margit, had also made her way to Texas to be with her son.
The transition was not easy for Sylvia, especially the weather, but she quickly adapted to her new surroundings and became a proud U.S. citizen in 1982. Sylvia worked for 5 years at the Kahler Green Oaks Inn (now demolished) and quickly rose in the ranks. At night and on weekends she attended business school in Dallas to prepare for her next venture. Realizing that Fort Worth had very few skin care facilities, she decided to open European Skincare Institute (later renamed European Skincare & Med Spa) in the fall of 1980. Her impact on the industry and the community was profound and far-reaching, as she mentored, counseled and trained countless skin care professionals before retiring in 2007. Many of her clients remember her as a kind, compassionate and wise woman, one who championed women's independence without sacrificing core family values. Sylvia was admired, loved, respected and gracious at all times and her advice was always valued and respected. She was always positive, optimistic and never looked back despite having been uprooted twice in her life.
Sylvia's most important calling in life, she would say, were her children, whom she adored and encouraged (especially towards higher education) but never spoiled. She loved to travel the world collecting antiques, learn new cultures, languages and customs. She was a private woman, an avid reader, outstanding cook, a true friend to many, and adored her furry and feathered friends, along with gardening and wine! In later years, feeding the birds in her backyard was one of her favorite pastimes. May she rest in peace.
Sylvia was predeceased by her parents, her husband, her oldest son, Steve and her brother Tony. She is survived by her children, Peter, Alexander and his wife Regina, her grandchildren Erik, Bela Alexander, Sabrina (Bree), Bianka, Stephan, Peter Jr., two great-granddaughters Sylvia Regina and Penelope, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and countless friends.
The family would like to express their gratitude to all the kind and caring professionals at Texas Health Harris Methodist, Martin Crest Assisted Living in Weatherford, AlevCare Hospice in Mansfield, Texas and her loving private caretakers.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Texas Kidney Foundation (txkidney.org). Private services will be held.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Star-Telegram from Jul. 23 to Aug. 6, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Sylvia Illyes

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Not sure what to say?





Marsha

December 19, 2024

Sylvia, my mentor & dearest friend....
I miss u everyday....

David Torres

November 2, 2024

Mimi,
You are missed so much in our lives and Your great grand daughter Penelope is becoming an amazing little person, 9yrs old already and 4th grade!

DAve Fox

November 1, 2024

MIMI, we miss you so much. I'm sitting here, so sad at our loss of your wisdom and converstion.
david (the country foxes)

Penelope Torres

July 17, 2024

Mimi you are the best person I ever met and I love you very much your great granddaughter Penelope

Bianka von Illyes

August 7, 2023

Bianka von Illyes

August 7, 2023

Bianka von Illyes

August 7, 2023

Bianka von Illyes

August 7, 2023

Bianka von Illyes

August 7, 2023

Bianka von Illyes

August 7, 2023

Bianka von Illyes

August 7, 2023

Bianka von Illyes

August 7, 2023

Dear Mimi,

You are now the second greatest loss in my life. Words can’t describe how empty my heart feels right now. You taught me how to love, respect and appreciate all things in life. You’ve touched so many peoples lives, and the world will not be the same without you.

I hate that I will never be able to see your glowing happy face anymore. I hate that I won’t be able to feel your warm embrace anymore. I hate that I won’t be able to hear about the amazing journeys you’ve been through during your life.

You were right there when I was born and I was there by your side at your final hours. Your 90 year circle of life has come to an end, but what an incredible life it was.

Thank you for showing me what a true grandmother is, and showing Penelope what a true great-grandmother is.

Just know that our family will remain strong and united, just as you wished for. I will continue to grow as a woman and mother, just as you hoped for. And I will watch after my little brothers, just as you asked for.

No more painjust peace.

I love you so much and I will see you on the other side.

Love,
Your granddaughter, Bianka ❤

Natasha

August 7, 2023

A very special and beautiful person whose bright light shines down onto generations of family, both biological and chosen. May she be welcomed into the arms of her ancestors and loved ones who wait for her in the next place. May she continue shining her light on all of us.

Linda Donathan

August 6, 2023

From the time Sylvia moved in next door, we bonded. She was a wonderful friend and became a dear friend. We enjoyed drinking wine together while I listened to the wonderful stories of her life. I couldn´t have asked for a better neighbor or friend. I will miss her. Love you, Sylvia

Sandra Mercer

August 4, 2023

I loved her dearly, her wonderful stories, her love of art and wild birds. I Just found out about her death and I am very deeply sorry. I have candle lit and my
rosery hanging on a cross, time for wine my dearest Sylvia.

Marsha Sharp

August 2, 2023

So many thoughts and such difficulty in finding the words..
Sylvia's soul has found a place to rest...
Her contribution as a mentor, friend, sister, confidant will forever be etched in my heart..
I cherish her love and friendship that endured 40 years of doing life...
I love you, Sylvia.

Betty Lynch

August 2, 2023

Prayers of peace & comfort for the family. What a beautiful legacy she created & will continue on !

Earnie Ray

August 2, 2023

My condolences to the family . May you find comfort in your treasured memories and Gods promise to return our loved ones . 1st Thessalonians 4 : 13&14.

Javi Von Illyes

August 1, 2023

There are times when there are few words left to heal us, when what we wished for is to be carried, when we all have left is the hope that tomorrow will be a more gentle place to land than today. I have faith that my husband´s grandmother is looking after her family from heaven until she meet them again in paradise. My deepest condolences

Bela Alexander Von Illyes Guirola

August 1, 2023

Sylvia Von Illyes is my grandmother and my second mother. the time I spent with you was precious I will never forget the words of wisdom you gave me in my darkest hours and moments. Your 110% support and understanding your unconditional love and dedication to your family I will always admire and live by on a daily basis. You have taught me so much in so little time. You are a stepping stone to the man I am today and forever remain for that I will always be grateful and cherish. I really wish I could have held your hand one more time and tell you how much I admire you and love you. Mimi is above and beyond the best grandma I could have ever asked for. You're level of understanding and wisdom I will forever miss. you are the sweetest person that walked this earth. You will always be in my heart and I know you will remain to. Protect me even now that you are gone. I will always miss and love you. Your grandson Bela Alexander Von Illyes Guirola

Lisa Bautz

August 1, 2023

Aunt Sylvia was simply a beautiful woman, inside and out. She was interesting and interested in people and cared so deeply and wanted always to help her family and friends.
I knew I was going to love her the first time I was introduced to her in 1990, drinking wine around her table, enjoying always her humor and wit.

She made time to call or text, never missed a birthday, and was so thoughtful in her words, actions, and surprises. She made you feel loved and cared for always and her subtle life lessons I will always cherish.

Her last days I reminded her what a positive impact and wonderful example she has been to so many on how to live and love.
She was blessed to have been shown such love and care from her boys, family and friends, and we were blessed to have her in our lives.
Cheers to you Sylvia on a life well lived!
With much love,
Lisa ,Andy, and Blake

Michael Beerstecher

August 1, 2023

Liebe Sylvia
Nach langer Krankheit durftest du endlich von uns gehen, auch wenn es immer schwer fällt einen geliebten Menschen zu verlieren.
Ich kannte dich seit meiner Kindheit und habe mich immer gefreut dich zu sehen. Du hast mich immer liebevoll bei dir empfangen, nur so konnten Peter und ich beste Freunde werden.
Für mich warst du immer wie meine 2te Mutter.
Es tut so weh dich gehen zu sehen, ich hoffe du kommst jetzt in eine bessere Welt voller Frieden und lieben Menschen, so wie du es warst.
Ich werde dich nie vergessen und die schönen Erinnerungen an dich in meinem Herzen tragen.
In Liebe Michael

Denise Lion

July 31, 2023

It´s with a heavy hearts I bid farewell to a truly exceptional woman, Sylvia aka Mimi , Momi .
As I
reflect on her life, I remember the immense love and care she poured into my life with the role of a mother to
me , a grandmother to Erik and Bianka and great grandmother to Penelope, To them, she was more than just a grandparent; she was a source of endless joy and wonder, filling their lives with laughter and cherished memories.

Sylvia's presence in our lives was like a comforting embrace, a constant pillar of support and guidance. She instilled in us , Erik, Bianka ,Penelope and I values of kindness, compassion, and the importance of family bonds. Her love knew no bounds, and she made sure Erik, Bianka , Penelope and I felt cherished in every moment that we spent together.

As a grandmother, Sylvia was a true gift, always there with open arms and a listening ear. Her love extended not only to her children and grandchildren but also to me as dear friend , mentor and confidant.
Her wisdom and encouragement helped me grow as an individual, instilling in me a sense of independence and empowerment.

Today, I say goodbye to a woman whose presence illuminated our lives, as a friend, mother, grandmother and great grandmother ,who left an indelible mark on our hearts .
Her memory will forever live on, as we carry her love, teachings, and kindness in our hearts. Though the ache of her absence is profound, we find solace in knowing that she will forever watch over us, guiding us from a different dimension . Rest in peace, Dear Mimi , your legacy of love and compassion will endure through the generations.
I love you
Denise Illyes -Lion

Ellen Warthoe/Blake Hardy

July 31, 2023

We knew Sylvia from a Spanish class and a group that developed from it. She added her considerable wit and warmth, making Tertulia a better, more interesting experience for everyone. She remains an inspiration to us, reinforcing our faith in perseverance.

Deborah

July 31, 2023

Deborah

July 31, 2023

Deborah

July 31, 2023

My dear Mami,
You forever changed my life 38 years ago. All the things you did for me are too many to list. You gave me a house to live in, a car to drive, a job and a life long career. You taught me english, how to drive, to cook, about the arts and about survival.The most precious gift you left me is the gift of unconditional love. Because of you I am the mother I am today. I will miss you and continue to cherish our love for each other till we meet again.
Your forever chocolate daughter

Marta Ministro

July 27, 2023

Querida e adorada Sylvia, foi como uma mãe para mim!
Tantas memórias, recordações e histórias para contar...
Eu tinha 20 anos (tenho agora 77 anos) e comecei a tomar conta dos seus adorados filhos (meus meninos), tantas peripécias e aventuras vividas!
Ficam as saudades e um último abraço que ficou por dar... a uma grande, inteligente, linda e amável mulher!
Um grande beijinho minha Sylvia!

Matilde e Marta Ministro
Portugal

Wanda Doyel

July 25, 2023

I first met Silvia during the 1980s when I worked across the street at Champlin Petroleum. Once a month I would enjoy a wonderful facial that she did for me. She was such a classy lady. She became a good friend. It was my pleasure to have known her.

kathleen Crater

July 25, 2023

I truly loved Sylvia. We shared many memories of our family and our work. She was a great patron of my paintings, too. Kathleen Crater

Tiffany Anderson

July 25, 2023

Sylvia was such a very kind and strong woman! Graceful! She was a huge impact on many woman, more than I believe she realizes. She will be missed by many! May positive light, love and energy surround the family

Hilde Horchler

July 24, 2023

Thankful for 40 years of a wonderful friendship with Sylvia including many trips to discover interesting foreign countries.
Sylvia will always be in my memories and in my hearts. Rest in peace, my dear friend.
Hilde

Taylor Biering

July 24, 2023

Sylvia was a kind woman who inspired many. Her wonderful legacy will live on! Your family is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. She will be missed. -The Biering Family

Linda Scott

July 23, 2023

I´m afraid I don´t have the vocabulary to describe how amazing Sylvia was. She was a huge influence in my life and was a close friend for over 40 years. I will miss her counsel.

mac fulfer

July 23, 2023

I met Sylvia 50 years ago at a Hip Pocket Theater production and I read her palm. We were life-long friends ever since that day.

Doris Paranhos

July 23, 2023

When someone we love passes away
We feel a deep and lasting pain
We miss their voice, their smile, their touch
We wish we could have one more day

But though they are no longer here
Their memory will never fade
They live in our hearts and minds and souls
They are with us in every way

We honor them by living well
By cherishing the love they gave
By being kind and grateful and strong
By finding joy in every day

David

July 21, 2023

Oh Mimi, it seems very unreal still.
You will be missed mimi and our long conversations, over a glass of wine
As always... "Eres un encanto"

Dan and Erin Machajewski

July 20, 2023

We will miss Sylvia and send love to her family <3.

Your neighbors and friends,

Erin and Dan

Showing 1 - 38 of 38 results

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