Sylvia Coomler

1920 - 2017

Sylvia Coomler

Sylvia Coomler, long-time resident of Keizer, passed away peacefully in her sleep in Eugene, on February 18, 2017, of age-related causes. She was 96 years old.

Sylvia was born in Alexandria, Minnesota, on July 22, 1920, to Joseph Tehle and Mary Hruza Tehle. She moved from there to Wahpeton, North Dakota, then to Woodburn, Oregon, and then to Salem in 1933. As a child, she was a bit of a tom boy and liked to tell stories of playing ball with the boys and running across the tops of trains for fun. She was often asked why she couldn't be more of a lady like her sister. She wore this as a badge of honor and attributed the fresh air and physical activity to her long life.

Sylvia was in the last class to graduate from the old Salem High School in 1937 and then attended Capitol Business College. She married her first love, John K. Coomler, on November 23, 1939. They moved to Manbrin Gardens in Keizer in 1946. She worked with her husband at their business, Coomler and Franz, a hardware/grocery store that was located on Cherry Avenue and River Road in Keizer. She later worked in accounting and as a receptionist at the Oregon State Forestry Department from 1959 until she retired in 1982.

In her adult years, she was a very elegant woman who always dressed to the nines. Sylvia enjoyed watching many sports, but became most animated watching the Blazers. She liked taking long drives with her husband and trips in their travel trailer, often spending summers in Depoe Bay. She loved spoiling her grandchildren and spending time with her dear friends, her wonderful neighbors, and her loving family. For several years after her retirement she drove Meals on Wheels. Sylvia kept mentally active by doing crossword puzzles and by being an avid reader, especially of biographies, non-fiction, and newspapers. She kept current on politics until the end of her life. Sylvia loved to garden; her yard was always a showcase that brought her great joy.

Sylvia was an incredibly independent woman who lived on her terms in her own home for 68 years until she was 94. Although she didn't drive often or far, it made her smile when at 94 her driver's license was renewed for 8 years, or until she was 102.

John and Sylvia had two children, Judy and John, Jr. Sylvia was fiercely devoted to and protective of her entire family. With help from her children and wonderful neighbors she lived in the home that she loved until the last few months of her life. Her love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was complete and unconditional.

Sylvia is preceded in death by her husband of almost 60 years, John K. Coomler, sisters Lillian Myers and Mildred French, and brother Lester Tehle. She is survived by her daughter, Judy Boler (husband Rich); son, John Jr.; grandchildren, Linda, Leslie, and Dan; five great- grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews who all adored and respected her. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.

Thank you to the wonderful staff at Emerald Valley Assisted Living and PeaceHealth Hospice in Eugene for all of the care and kindness that made Sylvia's end of life comfortable. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Meals on Wheels. Family and friends will celebrate Sylvia's life on March 18th at 1:00 p.m. at McNary Golf Course in Keizer.