Sylvia H. Prager

Madison -- Sylvia H. Prager, age 89 died Friday, July 2, 2010.   Sylvia was born July 22, 1920 in Chicago, the daughter of Charles and Ida (Keith) Hellerman.   Sylvia was the wife of the late Adolph Prager, and mother of the late Sherman, Steven and Linda.  She is survived by grandson, Michael (Dana) Prager and great grandchildren, Shoshana, Avi and Gabe.   She is also survived by son Steven's life partner, Judy Siekerk. Sylvia lived in Chicago until the 1980's when she moved to Coloma, Michigan to retire with husband Adolph.   After Adolph's death she lived in Durango, Colorado and Madison, Wisconsin, where she resided at Capitol Lakes Retirement Center.   She loved her time in Madison these past few years with grandson, Michael and his family. Sylvia was a devoted public servant, working with the Social Security System. She loved traveling the world, including Israel, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.   Sylvia enjoyed reading biographies and was a life long learner, taking many college courses and taking part in elder hostile programs after retirement.   She enjoyed meeting friends and new people.   Sylvia was a writer who, in particular, wrote stories for The Tri City Record while living in Coloma, Michigan.   Her other passions were collecting antiques, cooking, picking peaches and blueberries, quilting and most importantly, spending time with her grandson and wife and great grandchildren.   She enjoyed her inclusion with their friends and families as well.   Sylvia was always a great friend to many. Sylvia was active in the Jewish community including Synagogue in St. Joseph, MO, Pioneer Women, Workman's Circle and Hadassah as well as many community organizations, including Berrien County Historical Society.   Sylvia always spoke her mind and did things the way she wanted to.   She was smart and persistent, resourceful and creative.   She was truly a strong, independent woman who's commitment to and love of family and community was unwavering. Funeral services for Sylvia will be held Monday, July 5, 2010 at 12:00 Noon at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison.   Burial will be at Sunset Memory Gardens in Madison. Memorials in Sylvia's name may be gifted to NA'AMAT USA, 350 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4700, New Your, New York 10118, www.naamat.org