Remember

Mrs. Sydney Ann Walsh

August 1, 1935 - December 11, 2012
San Diego, California

Set a Reminder for the Anniversary
of Sydney's Passing

I lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorial contributions be made to
Birthline
3660 Clairemont Drive #4
San Diego, CA 92122

Mother Antonia Edist Servants of Eleventh Hour
3542 Governor Drive
San Diego, CA 92122

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El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley and El Camino Memorial Park

5600 Carroll Canyon Rd.
San Diego, CA 92121
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“Syd will always be in my heart and will think of her often, she will be missed by all of us and the the "Flakes will not be the same without her." ...Read More » ”
1 of 20 | Posted by: MARTHA HODGE - San Diego, CA

“john--our love and prayers are with you all--syd's service was unbelievable---what a great tribute!!! ”
2 of 20 | Posted by: beth machado and art dioli

“T all the Family. I can't think of a thing thru the tears. I will always love and miss her. There are so many happy things to remember and I will...Read More » ”
3 of 20 | Posted by: Onnie - LAS VEGAS, NV - FRIEND

“Dear Walsh Family....Jacque and I extend our most sincere condolences. Syd meant so much to our community. We watched Heather grow up and become a...Read More » ”
4 of 20 | Posted by: Barry/Jacqueline Bernstein - CA

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with you and yours during this difficult time. While we have not kept in touch over the decade,s some thoughts...Read More » ”
5 of 20 | Posted by: Kathie Faulhaber Murphy - IL

“Syd will be missed by her family and many friends. I got to know Syd in the Mystical Rose Guild. She was a special person and a very accomplished...Read More » ”
6 of 20 | Posted by: Evelyn Rick - CA - Friend

“Dear John and Syd's family, We send our love, our prayers and a $100 contribution to the Mother Antonia Eudist Servants of the 11th Hour. It will...Read More » ”
7 of 20 | Posted by: Claire & Roy Hughes - San Diego, CA

“To John and Family; Our deepest sympathies on the passing of Syd. She was a wonderful and caring person and indeed a classy lady. We were privileged...Read More » ”
8 of 20 | Posted by: Bill and Delores - San Diego, CA

“Syd was one of the finest women I've ever known. An example of courage in adversity. A kind, loving person with a great sense of humor. I have many...Read More » ”
9 of 20 | Posted by: Genie Remoll - Simpsonville, SC

“Syd was an amazing and giving woman who will be missed by all. Just reading about her accomplishments and awards shows how special she was and how...Read More » ”
10 of 20 | Posted by: Cathy Remoll Torres

“Dear John and family, We send our sincere sympathy and love to you at this most difficult time. Our friendship goes back so many wonderful years. ...Read More » ”
11 of 20 | Posted by: Pat v Buttemer - San Diego, CA

“Syd and John were the first people we met in University City 30 years ago. Syd sold us our home, welcomed us to the community, and into the group of...Read More » ”
12 of 20 | Posted by: Jim and Judy Bethel - San diego, CA

“Syd was a wonderful friend. She will be missed by everyone. ”
13 of 20 | Posted by: Barbara Hess - Colorado Springs, CO

“I will miss you, but I know you are now in a better place. Say "Hi" to all our family and friends up there with you. You will always stay in my...Read More » ”
14 of 20 | Posted by: Katherine Anderson - San Diego, CA

“Syd was a happy, gentle soul who loved to tell stories. Most of the stories were about things that happened to her or someone in her family. We all...Read More » ”
15 of 20 | Posted by: Nancy Meader - San Diego , SC

“Dear John and family, The Minnesota Kelletts send our deepest condolences to all of you. We still remember the fun time we had with all of you...Read More » ”
16 of 20 | Posted by: Sue and Mike Kellett - MN

“Rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family during this time. Sincerely, Ani Morrow Golden Triangle Republican Women...Read More » ”
17 of 20 | Posted by: Ani Morrow

“You were always a winner at Bunco. The Table of Wisdom has lost a great friend. I know you are with Mother planning a great party for St Patrick's...Read More » ”
18 of 20 | Posted by: Ed & Juidie Jilka - San Diego, CA

“Dear John, I am so sorry about Sydney. She was always so positive and enthusiastic no matter what her circumstances. Her many years of...Read More » ”
19 of 20 | Posted by: Christie Walsh - San Diego, CA

“John, Kevin, Tim, Brian and Heather -- Tim, Amelia and I are so sorry to hear about Syd's death. She was a lovely, fun person and I'm very grateful...Read More » ”
20 of 20 | Posted by: Mary Dieter - Zionsville, IN

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Sydney Ann Walsh passed to heaven on the morning of December 11, 2012 peacefully at her home of more than forty years, surrounded by her family in University City, CA. Syd lived 77, giving, loving, and devoted years. Syd is survived by her husband John, children Kevin, Tim, Brian, and Heather and grandchildren Patrick, Brennan, Matthew, Aidan, Savahanna, Bailey, and Brieanna. She was predeceased by her oldest daughter Katy.
Syd was born on August 1, 1935 to Halton and Marion Green in Aurora, Illinois, and grew up with her siblings Dan, Greg, and Stacey. She attended Quincy College and graduated from Marshall University. At Quincy, she met her husband of nearly 55 years, John Walsh. Syd and John married on December 28, 1957 in Huntington, WV. Syd and John moved eleven times in ten years before they settled in University City and raised their family.
Aside from being a mother of five, Syd worked tirelessly for others her entire life. She began as a social worker for Catholic Charities in Chicago, and then worked as a real estate agent in University City for thirty years. In the community she was the 1st treasurer of University of Bobby Sox, a board member of University City Little League, and headed the St. Vincent's Clothing Drive. Syd devoted her life to her faith where she was a Grand Lady Knight, and worked at Birthline and countless other faith based charities.
Syd has been recognized throughout her life for her efforts. She was named "Woman of the Year" of North West Nevada, one of the 15 Most Outstanding Women of San Diego and recipient of the Matthew :25 recognition through her church.
When Syd did find time for herself she spent it with her many groups of friends, "The Flakes", "Table of Wisdom", and "Mystical Rose Guild" and her Bunco group.
Syd lived a life of devoted faith, unwavering patriotism, and unconditional love. She was an extraordinary volunteer who truely lived her principles.When asked what was the best time of her life she responded "Its all been good". She would say her secret to life was to "Live each day for the day, and put faith in God".

Please go to "LIFE STORIES" to view "My First Christmas in Heaven " poem and Heather Grennan's tribute to her mom

Rosary

December 15, 2012
10:00 AM to 10:30 AM

Our Mother of Confidence
3131 Governor Drive
San Diego, CA 92122

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Funeral Mass

December 15, 2012
10:30 AM

Our Mother of Confidence
3131 Governor Drive
San Diego, CA 92122

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Reception

December 15, 2012
12:00 PM

Our Mother of Confidence
3131 Governor Drive
San Diego, CA 92122

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Memories & Candles

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Syd will always be in my heart and will think of her often, she will be missed by all of us and the the "Flakes will not be the same without her." We are so happy that you are at peace now and with Katy and we know you will be looking down on us and be a part of us each day. Your service on Saturday was just beautiful and your whole family gave such a wonderful tribute to

... more

Posted by: MARTHA HODGE - San Diego, CA - One of the 7 Flakes of 40 years Dec 17, 2012

john--our love and prayers are with you all--syd's service was unbelievable---what a great tribute!!!

Posted by: beth machado and art dioli Dec 17, 2012

T all the Family.
I can't think of a thing thru the tears. I will always love and miss her.
There are so many happy things to remember and I will get there soon.
You all will always be a part of us,,,,Magar Family

Posted by: Onnie - LAS VEGAS, NV - FRIEND Dec 16, 2012

Dear Walsh Family....Jacque and I extend our most sincere condolences. Syd meant so much to our community. We watched Heather grow up and become a very beautiful and caring person. John, we have enjoyed our friendship throughout these many years and we will be here for you if you should need us. Your very dear friends, Barry and Jacqueline Bernstein

Posted by: Barry/Jacqueline Bernstein - San Diego, CA - friends Dec 16, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers remain with you and yours during this difficult time.

While we have not kept in touch over the decade,s some thoughts remain fresh and treasured. When the extended family would gather at our log cabin in Naperville, Syd was the "oldest" cousin who always had time for us. Obviously, she lived a lifetime for others. Our world has been blessed by having Sydney with us She will be missed.

Posted by: Kathie Faulhaber Murphy - Plainfield, IL - cousin-mother's side Dec 15, 2012

Syd will be missed by her family and many friends. I got to know Syd in the Mystical Rose Guild. She was a special person and a very accomplished lady.
May she rest in peace with our Lord.
Evi Rick

Posted by: Evelyn Rick - San Diego (University City), CA - Friend Dec 15, 2012

Dear John and Syd's family,

We send our love, our prayers and a $100 contribution to the Mother Antonia Eudist Servants of the 11th Hour. It will come to you from a grant we requested from the jewish Community Foundation. We will say the Rosary for you and your family tomorrow. We are unable to attend.

The last time we saw you and Syd was at Immaculata Church USD a few months ago. We greeted each other with a warm hug.

May God Bless you and embrace you while you grieve.

Roy and Claire Hughes

Posted by: Claire & Roy Hughes - San Diego, CA - Old friends Dec 15, 2012

To John and Family; Our deepest sympathies on the passing of Syd. She was a wonderful and caring person and indeed a classy lady. We were privileged to have had her as a close friend over all these years. God bless you. The Hustons

Posted by: Bill and Delores - San Diego, CA - friend Dec 15, 2012

Syd was one of the finest women I've ever known. An example of courage in adversity. A kind, loving person with a great sense of humor. I have many treasured memories of our two families. Charlie must surely have welcomed her in Heaven with a warm hug and a joke. My love and sympathy to John, the boys, and Heather.

Posted by: Genie Remoll - Simpsonville, SC - Friend and "A Flake" Dec 14, 2012

Syd was an amazing and giving woman who will be missed by all. Just reading about her accomplishments and awards shows how special she was and how much she was loved by her community. Deepest condolences to John, Kevin, Tim, Brian and Heather. She and my dad are up there telling jokes and having a blast :-) They had such a special relationship and enjoyed each other so much.
Hugs
Cathy

Posted by: Cathy Remoll Torres Dec 14, 2012

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They say there is a special relationship between an older sister and younger brother. And Syd's and my relationship was no exception to that rule. As her younger "annoying" brother, while earning her degree in psychology degree, was convinced that I was abnormal and used me as her test subject. But, when her sororiety sisters showed interest in dating me, her perspective changed and we formed a special loving relationship that has endured ov er the years. It has been my good fortune to have benefited of her love for all this time.

Posted by Dan Green from Puerto Vallarta, Nayarit, Mexico - Brother on
December 17, 2012

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Years ago my mom bought me a refrigerator magnet that said, "Mirror, mirror on the wall, I am my mother after all." At the time, I was much younger and was ignorantly horrified by the thought. She knew I would take it that way and intentionally bought it as a little joke with a twinkle in her eye. But that was just like her.

As the word spread this week that my mom passed away, many of my friends have reached out to tell me how much my mom meant to them and spoke of all her wonderful qualities. In their kind words they mentioned similarities

But I am not here to talk about our similarities, I am here to tell you our biggest difference.

If I am tired, hungry or sick, you are going to know about it. Repeatedly.

My mom, on the other hand, never complained. She didn't want to burden others with her problems, though she never tired of listening and helping everyone else. But that was just like her.

My mom did not let her disease define her. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if many people here didn't know exactly what she had or how long she had it. But that is just like her.

I was with her for both diagnosis. Around 10 years ago her speech began to change and she was diagnosed with Primary Progessive Aphasia. And it was 2 years ago when she received the Progressive Supranuclear Palsy diagnosis. The neurologist offered support group information and my mom immediately responded that she would like to attend the meetings. My dad would take her to the monthly meetings as she wanted to reach out to others in the same condition and not burden others with her list of ailments. But that was just like her.

In the following years, at every doctor appointment they could not believe her strength and determination to not let her disease take her down. She was defying the disease. Normal progression would mean she would not have been able to walk or stay balanced some time ago. But not my mom. Up until a little over a month ago, I remember seeing her walking down a grassy knoll at Bailey's soccer game. I was running after to her to slow down, but that was just like her.

There wasn't a football, soccer game, recital or school function that she would miss. She was bound and determind to be there for all of her grandchildren. But that was just like her.

My mom didn't ask for help. Even when I was trying to encourage more help around the house this year, she firmly shook her head and wrote "No. Dad is here." But that was just like her.

However, my mom never stopped thinking of others. The majority of you may also not know my mom immediately signed on to volunteer in a research program for PSP at UCSD for the past few years. She's had multiple MRIs, Cat Scans, CT scans and even Spinal Taps. It would shock me when I would stop by for a surprise visit and and she was returning from her doctors appointments without any acknowledgement of the invasive testing. But that was just like her.

On Tuesday as she was carried out of her home, she was off to donate her brain with hopes to help others and search for a cure for her debilitating disease. And that is just like her.

Now as I think back on that refrigerator magnet, I realize it was the greatest compliment I could ever receive. Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, I strive to be like my mother, afterall.

Heather Grennan

But I am not here to talk about our similarities, I am here to tell you our biggest difference.

If I am tired, hungry or sick, you are going to know about it. Repeatedly.

My mom, on the other hand,... READ MORE →

Posted by Heather Grennan from San Diego, CA - Daughter on
December 16, 2012

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My First Christmas in Heaven

I see the countless Christmas trees
Around the world below
With tiny lights, like Heaven’s stars,
Reflecting on the snow

The sight is so spectacular,
Please wipe away the tear
For I am spending Christmas with
Jesus Christ this year

I hear the many Christmas songs
That people hold so dear
But the sounds of music can’t compare
with the Christmas Choir up hear

I have no words to tell you,
The joy their voices bring
For it is beyond description
To hear the angles sing

I know how much you miss me
I see the pain inside your heart
But I am no so far away
We really aren’t apart.

So be happy for me, dear ones,
You know I hold you dear.
And be glad that I am spending Christmas
With Jesus Christ this year

I sent you each a special gift
From my heavenly home above
I... READ MORE →

Posted by Tim Walsh from Encinitas, CA - Son on
December 16, 2012

Mrs. Sydney Ann Walsh

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