Sylvia L. Faust

Sylvia L. Faust, 80, of Oshkosh passed away peacefully Friday, October 20, 2017, surrounded by family and her beloved Norwegian Elkhound.

Sylvia was born on May 1, 1937 in Stoughton, Wis., the daughter of Millerd and Anne (Amble) Felland. She grew up on a farm outside of Stoughton and was valedictorian of the class of 1955 of Stoughton High School. She graduated from what is now known as the University of Wisconsin - Stout in 1959 with a bachelor’s degree in home economics education. Almost 30 years later, she returned to school and received a master’s degree in educational curriculum and supervision from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh. She worked for years at the Oshkosh Public Library.

Sylvia is survived by her three children, Pete Faust (Kristen Fogtman-Faust) of Fox Point, Wis., Mike Faust (Joslyn) of Mill Valley, Calif., and Jane Madden (John) of Shelburne, Vt., and their father Marvin Faust. She is also survived by six grandchildren, Oscar and Isabelle Faust, Hudson and Chloe Faust and Maggie and Sophie Madden. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Phillip Felland of Sun Prairie.

Sylvia was a wonderful mother and friend. Her children considered themselves very fortunate to call her mom. Her support was unconditional, her compassion boundless. Friends were a very important part of Sylvia’s life: She enjoyed cards, movies and plays, book club, dinners and lunches, and visiting. She was always appreciative of their support and companionship, and was a loyal friend in return.

Sylvia overcame physical challenges without a single complaint. Her inner strength and toughness were unparalleled. Nothing would stop her from making a trip to California or Vermont to see her grandchildren.

Before settling down in Oshkosh in 1970 with her young family, Sylvia lived throughout the country and world: Iowa, Mississippi, Texas, Canada and Iran.

She was proud of her family and was always very welcoming to, and fond of, her children’s friends. When her children were growing up, the Faust house and adjacent vacant lot were a hub of kids activities, including boating, fishing, baseball, football and pool. All were welcome by Sylvia.

Sylvia had a passion for nature and animals, especially birds and dogs. For many years, she has had a Norwegian Elkhound as a faithful companion (Gus, Smokey and Haakon). She instilled in her children a love of animals. For much of her life, Sylvia enjoyed gardening and was a big supporter of the Paine Arboretum. She felt a strong connection to her Norwegian heritage. One of the highlights of the past year was returning to the Stoughton area with her children for her 80th birthday to revisit her roots.

She was a fan of the Badgers, Packers, Brewers, and NASCAR driver Matt Kenseth.

Her family is eternally grateful for the care and special accommodation Sylvia received from the staff at ThedaCare trauma center, especially Sarah and Ryan.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at St. Andrew’s Church, 1100 E. Murdock Ave, with Rev. Karen Jewell officiating the service at 6 p.m. Burial will be on Wednesday at Western Koshkonong Lutheran Cemetery, Cottage Grove, Wis.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Oshkosh Area Humane Society in Sylvia’s memory.