Sylvia Colfack

1947 - 2023

Sylvia Colfack, 76

Sylvia "Gay" Colfack, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2023, in Lincoln, Nebraska, at the age of 76. Born on February 19, 1947, in Maywood, California, Gay's life was a testament to resilience, love, and dedication to family and community.

Gay was born in Maywood and, following the sudden passing of her father, moved to Columbus, Nebraska, at the age of 11 with her beloved mother and sister. It was in Columbus that she completed her education, graduating from Columbus High School in 1964. Love blossomed when she met Clarence "Butch" Colfack in 1967, leading to their union in marriage in August of 1968. Together, they welcomed two wonderful children, Debbie and Mark, into the world. Though the family briefly relocated to Red Oak, Iowa, they eventually settled in Grand Island, Nebraska, where they built a life full of memories for 33 years. In 2012, after both Gay and Butch retired, they moved to Lincoln, continuing to build memories and enjoy life in retirement.

Professionally, Gay dedicated 25 years of her life to the State of Nebraska Department of Labor, where she retired from her role as a Claims Deputy for the unemployment division. Beyond her professional pursuits, Gay was a beacon of support and involvement in her community. She cherished moments spent boating at the lake with family and friends. An avid word enthusiast, she found joy in crossword puzzles and games. Her faith was an anchor, being a member of the Catholic Church since childhood, and she participated in various church groups and activities. Gay's love for her family knew no bounds. When her children were young, she guided them as a Den Mother for the Boy Scouts and an adult leader for the Girl Scouts. Gay loved to sew and created many loved Halloween costumes for her children and grandchildren throughout the years. She fervently supported her children's sporting and school activities, and this love extended to her cherished grandchildren, for whom she crafted team gift bags and showed appreciation for their educators.

The legacy of Gay's love, kindness, and dedication will be remembered and cherished by her surviving family members: husband, Clarence Colfack; daughter, Deborah Bjorman and her husband, Gordon; son, Mark Colfack and his wife, Misty; grandchildren, Kirsten (Justin) Bank, Nathan, Alexander, Carter, Brock, and Cody; sister, Janice "Joy" Kallhoff and her husband, Dave; and many nieces and nephews. She now rests with her departed loved ones: sister-in-law, Cindy Colfack; in-laws, Clarence & Beatrice Colfack; mother, Helen Jeruzal; stepfather, Leo Jeruzal; and father, Earl Gaver.

A visitation will be held for family and friends to honor Gay's life on November 1, 2023, at Roper & Sons Funeral Home located at 3950 Hohensee Drive in Lincoln, NE. Family visitation will be from 5:00 – 6:00 PM, followed by public visitation from 6:00 – 7:00 PM. A Rosary Service will commence at 7:00 PM. The Funeral Service will take place at Saint Michael's Catholic Church in Lincoln, NE on November 2, 2023, at 10:00 AM.

Burial will follow the Funeral Service at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery. Luncheon will follow the burial, location TBD.

Memorial gifts may be directed to the family to be designated at a later date.

In remembering Gay, we are reminded of the strength of family bonds, the importance of community, and the immeasurable love a person can bring to the lives of those around them. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew her.