Sylvia Ernst, 86, of Miles City passed away on April 18, 2020 at Holy Rosary Extended Care in Miles City, Montana. Sylvia was born on September 6, 1933 to Charles and Pauline (Paski) Lauraitis in Chicago, Illinois. She grew up in Chicago and graduated from high school there. Her career in nursing started right out of high school and lasted over 45 years. She was a nurse in both Chicago IL and Littleton, CO.
Sylvia met her husband, Carl, when she was a teaching nursing to students at Wesley Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL. This happened to be the same hospital that Carl was 2nd in command of security. They were married on April 25, 1970 and lived most of their married life together in the Denver area. For about 25 years they lived right in the mountains in Conifer, CO. They loved life there and stayed until they retired to Miles City, Montana in 2006. They were blessed with a quieter way of life, enjoying the fresh air and more space that Montana offered.
Sylvia was a wonderful nurse but also had many interests. She loved gardening and in Littleton they had an enormous vegetable garden, but she loved flowers and grew many different kinds, as well. She loved baking and cooking. She tried her hand at painting pictures. Her interests were so varied. Sylvia was one of those people who was always exploring and trying new things, always learning.
Sylvia was much loved by the four children her sister Patricia Gunia (Lauraitis) left behind when she died at the age of 28. Sylvia was working the night shift, but the four were always thrilled when she was off and took them under her wing to teach and guide them. They explored the Indiana Dunes and the forest preserves and went camping with her. They were taught to have respect for nature and every living thing. Their gratitude to Carl and Sylvia is immense as they enjoyed the visits with them in Colorado. Again, they were taken on amazing trips to the most beautiful places in Colorado. They always had the time of their lives and felt loved.
Sylvia’s passion for nursing continued as she practiced her art even when she herself was the patient. The care and love she received at Holy Rosary Extended Care was very appreciated. All the staff involved made a difference in her and Carl’s life.
Sylvia was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Patricia Gunia and her brother Edward Lauraitis. She is survied by her husband Carl Ernst. She is also survived by her brother Thomas Lauraitis. Also, those grateful four children, who appreciated her so much: John Gunia (Mary), Charlene Flores, Linda Whitman (Richard) and Dennis Gunia. And also other nieces and nephews as well as cousins. She will also be missed by her longtime friend in nursing, Helen Dorner.
A visitation will be held on, Saturday May 16, 2020, from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home, 1717 Main St., Miles City, Montana. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Saturday May 16, 2020
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main St
Miles City, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Saturday May 16, 2020
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main St
Miles City, Montana 59301
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Dolores H. Steiner says
I am so sad to see that Sylvia passed away. what a sweet and gentle lady. She will be missed.
Haley Mills says
Boss lady my nickname for you Miss Sylvia your the most amazing person I loved talking to you about nursing you will forever be in my heart and never forgotten.. Love you from Johnny and Haley Eades
Shea says
My sweet sweet Sylvia you will be so very missed.
MARTHA CRANDALL says
My sympathy
Kaitlyn Perkins says
Sylvia, you were one of my all time favorite ladies. You taught me so many things, and brought many smiles to my face. I will miss our talks, and I will miss your long interesting stories. You lived a full life that I’m glad I got to be in, even if it wasn’t for very long.
Jackie Stroh says
Carl so sorry to hear Sylvia’s passing I dearly loved taking care of her my thoughts and condolences are with you at this difficult time will certainly miss seeing Sylvia at work thoroughly enjoyed her what a wonderful lady she was ♥️
Linda says
Aunty, thank you for instilling a love of nature in me. I have fond memories of camping trips from my youth. I love the mountains, the rushing creeks, the birds and flowers. Much love, Linda
Sandra Vaisvil says
Carl, sending love and prayers for you through this time, and Sylvia, you are free of the burdensome body.
You are a great example of love. Peace for all the family and friends
Anna Matthews says
Carl and Sylvia have always been good to my family. They doted upon our kids and were always kind to both of us. Carl, as a Rotarian, was especially influential for Barrie. Much love to you! – Barrie and Anna Matthews
Audrey Haumschilld says
Hugs and Prayers Carl . Sylvia was such a sweet lady . It was an honor to be able to look after her and help her when she resided with us. She’ll be very missed by all of us. Sylvia I hope your free of pain and up and walking. RIP Dear Love Audrey Haumschild.
Terri and Ray Schmidt says
We are so so sorry for your loss, Carl. I always loved Sylvia and that twinkle in her eye. It was fun to be around the two of you and see your relationship back when we were in Miles City. It was very evident how much you both cared about each other. I know you will really miss her, Carl, and you will be in my heart and thoughts in the upcoming days, weeks, months and years.
Mark Browning says
Carl,
We were saddened to hear the news regarding your dear sweet Sylvia.
She would encourage you, as we do, to stay well and keep healthy.
Sandy Cameron says
Carl,
Sorry to hear of Sylvia’s passing. I know she will be very missed. Hope you can find comfort in your community during your time of loss!!
Hugs to you!!