Louis William "Louie" Sylvia

7/23/1935 - 9/5/2025

Ledyard - It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Louis "Louie" William Sylvia of Ledyard. Louis left this world peacefully and surrounded by family Sept. 5, 2025 at the age of 90. Louis Sylvia was born to John and Mary Sylvia July 23, 1935. Starting from an early age, Louis was a true pillar of his family, overcoming adversity and taking on the role as head of the household following the passing of his father.

Louis was a man of family, strength and honor. In his youth, Louis woke early each day and faithfully tended the woodstove at the one-room schoolhouse in Ledyard Center, ensuring it was warm for students before they arrived. He was a lifelong hard worker and a man of many trades. Throughout his childhood and into adulthood, Louis worked milking cows, ran a dairy farm with his family, served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves, and spent many years in construction as a crane operator for C.J. Perkins in Mystic. Louis later went on to retire from the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 478.

It is through his dedication as a hard worker that he was able to acquire his land in Ledyard. Louis devoted his life to his land, spending countless hours raising farm animals and tending to his gardens. From the fields he harvested to the tractor he drove, he poured his strength and heart into farming, never letting go, even in his 90s. The work of the farm never left him.

While Louis had many accomplishments in life, nothing compares to the love and happiness he found with his wife of 69 years, Sandy Sylvia. Louis met Sandy in 1956 and from that day forward, they created the greatest love story, sharing the rest of their lives together. From horse shows, to rodeos, to dance contests, Louis and Sandy shared many triumphs in their relationship. Yet, above all, their greatest achievement was the timeless love they gave to one another and the family they created.

Louis was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Sylvia; his siblings, John Sylvia and Alice (Sylvia) Mattern. In addition to his parents and his siblings, Louis was predeceased by his son Michael Sylvia and his daughter-in-law Colleen Sylvia. Louis is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Sandra Sylvia, and their children Rodney Sylvia and Cindy Sylvia Burke (Steve); as well as his daughter-in-law, Cheryl-Burns Sylvia. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Justin Burke, Matthew Burke (Ashley), Hayley Burke Roman (Mitchell), Colton Sylvia and Jacob Sylvia. In addition, Louis is survived by his bonus grandchildren, Daniel and Randy Specht, along with six great-grandchildren.

Louis will be deeply missed by a large and loving circle of family and friends who became like family. While he leaves behind countless loved ones, the greatest thing he leaves behind is his legacy and the memories he has shared with all who had the privilege of knowing him.

At the family's request, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.