Tributes Pour in for Sylvia Columbia, Beloved Veteran and Advocate

Sylvia Elaine Columbia, an esteemed veteran and community advocate, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at the Alpine Healthcare Center in Keene, New Hampshire. She was 86 years old and is remembered for her dedication to family, animals, and the military.

Born on October 27, 1939, in Springfield, Vermont, Sylvia was the daughter of Andrew and Iva Burke Salmond. She graduated from Springfield High School in 1957 and later attended Rutland Business College, where she studied business and nursing. Following her education, she enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) from 1958 to 1960, proudly serving her country and forming lifelong friendships during basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Sylvia was honorably discharged as a disabled veteran in December 1960.

Upon returning to Vermont, Sylvia worked in the Nursing Department at Springfield Hospital, where her commitment to caring for others remained evident throughout her life. Later, she spent 18 years at the Jones & Lamson Machine Company in Springfield, where she worked as an electrician and served as chief steward. She was also an officer of the United Electrical and Machine Workers of America Local 218, actively advocating for workers’ rights. Sylvia retired in 1983 due to health issues but continued to inspire those around her with her resilience and advocacy.

Her love for animals was a defining aspect of her life. Sylvia’s home frequently welcomed dogs, cats, and other animals in need, reflecting the compassion she inherited from her upbringing on a farm. In addition, she was an enthusiastic supporter of sports, attending numerous events for her children and grandchildren, where she was known for her unwavering spirit and encouragement.

Sylvia’s competitive nature shone through even in her later years. In 2009 and 2010, she represented New Hampshire at the National Veterans Golden Age Games, winning a gold medal in the 10 Meter Air Rifle over 65 division in 2010. Her tenacity and competitive spirit exemplified her belief in the importance of staying active and engaged throughout life.

Sylvia was predeceased by her siblings: Correnne Wilber (and husband Herb) of Buffalo, New York; Bob Salmond of Orange, California; and Edris Salmond of Perkinsville, Vermont. She is survived by her three sons: John van Wezel, Jr. of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida; Robert van Wezel of Keene, New Hampshire; and William Lucius (and Donna Briggs) of Manchester, New Hampshire, along with her sister-in-law Helen Salmond of Orange, California. Sylvia also leaves behind three grandchildren: Sarah Lucius (and great-grandchild Kash) of Concord, New Hampshire; Jami van Wezel of Keene, New Hampshire; and Jordan van Wezel and wife Maddie of Natick, Massachusetts, as well as several nieces and nephews across New York, California, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

Currently, there are no formal services planned. A military service is scheduled to take place in the spring or summer at Plain Cemetery in Weathersfield, Vermont, with the exact date yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Friends of Veterans at 28 Farmvu Drive, Suite 3, White River Junction, VT 05001, or the New Hampshire SPCA at 104 Portsmouth Avenue, Stratham, NH 03885.

Sylvia Columbia’s legacy of service, compassion, and advocacy will continue to resonate within her family and the community she cherished.