Stanley Sygitowicz, 95, a longtime Whatcom and Skagit County resident, made his final journey, peacefully and surrounded by his family, on Sunday, January 27, 2013, at United General Hospital in Sedro-Woolley.
He was born on March 9, 1917, in Clipper, Washington, to Paul and Mamie Sygitowicz. He graduated from Mount Baker High School in1933.
Stan grew up farming, after high school, started logging for many logging companies. For over 25 years, he owned and operated his own logging and road construction company. Stan retired, working in many volunteer programs, most notably serving as the Chairman of the Sedro-Woolley Housing Authority and was on the Board of Commissioners for 25 years. Upon his retirement of the Board in 2009, he was given the key to the City of Sedro-Woolley. Stan was living proof of the difference one person can make. One of Stan’s many accomplishments was his Award of Deming Log Show’s “Bull of the Woods” in 1990. Stan had a long list of very close friends.
Stan is survived by his son, Ray and his wife, Carole Sygitowicz; step-daughter, Laurie Fellers; sister, Mary Frostick; three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wives, Aileen in 1980, and Carlene in 2008; daughter, Doreen Small; sister, Emilia; brothers, Leo, Paul and Joe.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, February 1, 2013 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, with Father Martin Bourke, Celebrant. A Rosary will be recited with an opportunity for visitation at 7:00 PM, Thursday, Jan. 31, at Lemley Chapel. A private Graveside Committal will take place at Van Zandt Cemetery following Mass. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Deming Log Show.
I first met your Dad at a United Way meeting several years ago. He talked about the importance of taking care of those around us and how important it was to make sure that children especially had good care. His sincerety and dedicated to the causes that were important to him really inspired me in my work. I will always remember his gentle smile and warm welcome whenever he saw me. His example of community awareness is a wonderful testiment to his life.
Ray
So sorry to read about your Dad.
Our family had known Stan since 1971 when our oldest was just an infant, she is now 42. He and Aileen , and later Carlene, became our ” surogate” family by way of his daughter, Doreen’s, marriage to my husband’s brother. Although that marriage ended years ago, we remained part of Stan’s family. For years, he would drop by early on many Saturday mornings for a cup of coffee, conversation, and jokes. Didn’t matter that we weren’t quite awake or dressed; he told us “that old loggers never sleep in”. One of the most memorable highlights of his visits was when he’d bring a bottle or two of his homemade wine. Stan, you were one of a kind, a true gentleman and caring person, we will miss you but will never forget. Ray, Carole, Connie and family, our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Red and I wish to express our condolences to Ray and his family.
Stan was my parent’s (Bud and Maggie Schreifels) neighbor in Rolling Ridge for many years, during which time he became an important part of our family. We celebrated holidays together and he visited mom and dad for coffee a couple times a week to talk baseball, news, politics, family and friends.
Stan’s faith defined his life. He was our family’s angel. He prayed for us, and many others, often. His love for others was evident in how he lead his life and served his community. Generously with his whole heart. Everyone who had the honor of knowing Stand felt his capacity to love.
Stan always had a joke to tell, entertaining stories from his life’s experience or something interesting to share from one of the many books he read. You could always count on a lively discussion about many topics when Stanley was near by.
Our family will miss Stan terribly, but know in our hearts how truly blessed we are to have had him in our lives as our dear friend…
With love, Heidi Schreifels, Maggie Schreifels, Doug, Sandy and Lauren Thomas.
Ray and family.
We are sorry to hear about your loss. I will never forget the first time I shook Stan’s hand and the smiles on his face. Stan and Aileen always treated me like I was one of their own(and sometimes a little better according to Ray) Stan will be missed but he leaves us with many great memories.
Ray,, Carole and Genissa,
Kurt and I wanted to let you know that we have you in our hearts and prayers.
Love Kurt and Cheryl
We remember Stan living up the street from us and bringing us veggies from his garden.Always a smile on his face.
My relationship with Stan started in 1988, when I inteviewed for SCOA’s Director of Transportation, and for the next ten years he was a great Boss and supporter of the Dial-A-Ride program. Stan always listened carefully and then provided very good advice and guidance. The SCOA meetings were always positive and well conducted under Stan’s leadership. I will miss seeing Stan until that day when we will all be reunited again.
I will miss you, Great Uncle Stanley! May there be many waitresses for you to flirt with in Heaven.
Jackie
What can be said about my Uncle Stanley other than he was the best. He and my Aunt Aileen took me in when no one else in this world would. They loved me and took care of me as their own. I always knew with them in my life I would always have someone that loved me.
My uncle never forgot me, he called me at every thanksgiving and Christmas just to reming me he loved me.
This was and never will be anyone like him. I love you and thank you Uncle Stanley for being who you were.
Leeann
I have know Stan since 1996 when he first came to ask for a flower donation for the RSVP Luncheon. Ever since we have donated to this worthy cause. Even in later years, when he didn’t drive as much, he would come with another volunteer. I always looked forward to Stan’s friendly hugs and quick smile. He was always so appreciative for anything he was given. I was glad to be able to attend his 90th birthday party at the Senior Center. When this spring rolls around I will remember my Old Friend with fond memories. He was of those people that left a lasting impression. Good bye my friend, you have lived a long and memorable life.