Prairie Rose Cremation & Funeral Services

In Memory

Sylvia "Syl" Marjorie Vang (nee Monks)

August 26th, 1944 - May 3rd, 2025
Born in Calgary, Alberta
Passed in Calgary, Alberta
Sylvia "Syl" Marjorie Vang (nee Monks)

It is with deep sadness that the family of Sylvia “Syl” Marjorie Vang (nee Monks) announces her sudden passing on May 3, 2025, at the Peter Lougheed Centre in Calgary at the age of 80.

Sylvia was born on August 26, 1944, at Holy Cross Hospital to Edward and Marjorie Monks. She was predeceased by her beloved parents and by her husband, Peter Vang, with whom she shared 55 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 2019.

Sylvia leaves behind a loving family who will carry her memory forward; her children, Mike and Jacky Vang; along with their children, Reegan (partner Dylan) and Mitchell; Shawn Vang; and Heather and Rick Stevens and their children, Riley (partner Claudia) and Carter (partner Juliana). She was a devoted grandmother and took great pride and joy in her grandchildren.

Raised in the Bowness community of Calgary, Sylvia participated in baton twirling and walked in the Calgary Stampede Parade multiple times as a young girl. In the 1960s, she began working for CP Rail, where she met the love of her life, Peter. They married in 1964 and soon relocated to Sudbury, Ontario, before eventually settling in Dover and then Crossfield, Alberta, where they raised their three children.

Sylvia had a deep love for children and opened her heart and home to many foster children over the years. Her nurturing spirit also guided her career as a school bus driver and educational assistant at Crossfield Elementary, where she was cherished by students and staff alike.

A proud and active member of the Crossfield community, Sylvia dedicated countless hours to organizations such as the Royal Purple, Legion, Golden Key Club, the United Church, and many more. Her generous heart, tireless volunteerism, and vibrant spirit made her a pillar of the community.

She also cherished her close-knit group of lifelong friends, enjoying her morning chats with her cherished coffee ladies, card games, birthday celebrations, and her trips to Stagewest. These friendships became a second family to her.

Sylvia had a special bond with animals, welcoming countless strays into her home and enjoying daily walks with her many four-legged companions over the years.

Her sudden passing has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved her.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the Airdrie EMS, and the compassionate staff at both the Didsbury Hospital and Peter Lougheed Centre for the care provided during Sylvia’s final hours. Your kindness will not be forgotten.

As per Sylvia’s wishes, no formal service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to STARS Air Ambulance, www.stars.ca —an organization she held dear.

She will be remembered always for her boundless kindness, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for her family, friends, and community.


Share a message or memory
Tricia Fehr (Milner)
1 week ago
Sylvia was my bus driver for many years growing up. She always took an interest in our extracurricular activities for my sister and I that was figure skating. As I grew up and saw her around town she always made a point to say hello and ask about my life. I will always appreciate the kindness and caring she showed me throughout her life. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Colleen and Rick Gagnon
2 weeks ago
It was always great to see and talk to Sylvia on the walking paths and around town! Deepest condolences to Mike, Jacky & family
Gerard Hagel
2 weeks ago
Sylvia was a beautiful person!
Linda Backs
2 weeks ago
I had known Sylvia since my childhood, as she and Peter were friends of my parents. We were so shocked and saddened to learn of this vibrant lady’s passing… Sylvia had an incredible community spirit and brought such a warm, caring nature to all she became involved in… Her love for and devotion to family and friends was so evident, and Sylvia will be deeply missed…
Sincere condolences to Sylvia’s family… Your Mom/Grandma was a true gem… ❤️
Janice Graham
2 weeks ago
I have known Sylvia for many years and in different capacities- at the elementary school, community events and most recently as a cherished member of our StageWest ladies group. Sylvia had the kindest heart and always had a lovely story to share- whether it be about her dogs, her past experiences or her adored family. We shared countless laughs together. She was always the member of our group to make sure a photo was taken on our Stage West nights and we would tease her but I’m so grateful we have those precious memories. She is and will be dearly missed. My love and condolences to all who knew and loved her.
Robert and Suzanne Zruna
2 weeks ago
We are saddened to hear of Sylvia’s passing. She has touched the lives of so many people. She will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time 💕
Elva and Peter Thatcher Family
2 weeks ago
We are so sorry for your loss. Condolences to all the family.
Darlene and Jack Beddoes
2 weeks ago
Sylvia will be missed by all who new her. Our condolences to the family
Chris Timmons
2 weeks ago
My condolences to all of you. Your mom will be dearly missed
Jo Tennant
2 weeks ago
Sending sincere condolences to all the Vang families at this time. Sylvia's passing is a huge loss for family & the community.
Robin and Don Ruddy
2 weeks ago
So sorry to hear about your mom. She was a lovely lady and our community will really miss her.
Don and Robin Ruddy
2 weeks ago
We send our deepest condolences to the family. Sylvia will be missed in Crossfield, you could always see her out walking one of her dogs or at the post office. Such a community lady, always cared about everyone and would do anything she could to help if asked. May she be a song in your heart as you manage life without her. Blessings to you all
Lori Madsen
2 weeks ago
My condolences to the Vang Family . Sylvia was always so kind and an inspiration. I often met up with her on the dog path . Slyvia put me to shame when she we compared our steps for the day, she was so energetic and her love for children and animals was evident . Always asking how my grown children are doing and always walking a puppers . May she be at peace.
Carmen Steele
2 weeks ago
Sylvia, was such an amazing person! I have had a few cries with her but many laughs! She will be missed by many! Big hugs Mike, Shawn, Heather and your families. ❤️
Mark, Colette, & Markee Williamson
2 weeks ago
Sending our love and prayers to the Vanguard family! We loved living beside the Vangs. Sylvia was always so kind and loving to us. We’ve always had such a special love for her. She will be so missed ❤️
Erin LeBaron
3 weeks ago
We are so sad to hear of Sylvia’s passing. She has touched so many lives, our thoughts and prayers are with the Vang family at this time.
Jim Tennant
3 weeks ago
My condolences to the Vang family
Diane Barich
3 weeks ago
Sylvia was a very dear and cherished friend. So many happy memories, laughs, and adventures. Anything I needed to know I could always count on Sylvia. Condolences to her beautiful family. You are in my Thoughts and prayers
Lloyd and Laurangel Farr.
3 weeks ago
Sincere sympathy to the Vang Family.
Phyllis and Gerry Robinson
3 weeks ago
RIP dear Sylvia. You will be missed by all who knew you.
Maryanne Warnke
3 weeks ago
I had the opportunity to work with Sylvia driving school bus and also Crossfield Elementary doing lunch hour supervision. She was always a positive loving person. She will be missed by all who knew her. Condolences 🙏 to all the family.
Lani and Tyler McLeod
3 weeks ago
Sending love to the entire Vang family on your loss. Sylvia was such a kind and special lady. I remember her picking me up early in Kindergarten and taking me for coffee with the ladies so I could join the “big kids” for pizza on the bus.
Jaime Reimer
3 weeks ago
So sorry for your loss. To this day I still make the soup Sylvia brought to school one day for ‘soup day’ and she was kind enough to share the recipe with me.
Karen and Ken Murdoch
3 weeks ago
Sending sincere condolences to the Vang family at this sad time.