Sylvia Elaine Columbia, an esteemed member of her community and a proud veteran, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at the Alpine Healthcare Center in Keene, New Hampshire. She was 86 years old. Born on October 27, 1939, in Springfield, Vermont, Sylvia was the daughter of the late Andrew and Iva (Burke) Salmond, who hailed from Perkinsville, Vermont.
After completing her education at Springfield High School in 1957 and graduating from Rutland Business College in 1958, Sylvia enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), serving from 1958 to 1960. During her time at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, she formed enduring friendships that she treasured throughout her life. Sylvia’s military service was a significant source of pride for her, and she became a strong advocate for women in the armed forces, culminating in her honorable discharge as a disabled veteran in December 1960.
A Career Built on Caring
Following her service, Sylvia returned to Vermont and began working in the Nursing Department at Springfield Hospital, a role that underscored her lifelong commitment to caring for others. Even as her health began to decline, her concern for the well-being of her family and friends remained steadfast. She later transitioned to a career at the Jones & Lamson Machine Company in Springfield, where she worked for 18 years as an electrician. In this role, she also served as chief steward and was an officer of the United Electrical and Machine Workers of America Local 218. Sylvia retired in 1983 due to health issues.
A passionate animal lover, Sylvia’s home was always filled with various pets, including dogs, cats, and occasionally goats, rabbits, and ducks. Her childhood on a farm instilled in her a deep love for animals. Additionally, she was an avid sports enthusiast, supporting her children and grandchildren at their sporting events, regardless of the weather. Sylvia enjoyed gardening, focusing on roses, which were admired by many in her community.
A Competitive Spirit and Community Contributions
In her later years, Sylvia remained active and competitive. She traveled to Birmingham, Alabama, and Des Moines, Iowa, to represent New Hampshire at the National Veterans Golden Age Games in 2009 and 2010, where she excelled in the 10 Meter Air Rifle competition, winning the gold in 2010.
Sylvia was predeceased by her siblings, including Correnne Wilber (and husband Herb) of Buffalo, New York; Bob Salmond of Orange, California; and Edris Salmond of Perkinsville, Vermont. She is survived by her three sons: John van Wezel, Jr. of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida; Robert van Wezel of Keene, New Hampshire; and William Lucius (Donna Briggs) of Manchester, New Hampshire. Her family also includes her sister-in-law Helen Salmond of Orange, California; three grandchildren, Sarah Lucius (and great-grandchild Kash) of Concord, New Hampshire; Jami van Wezel of Keene, New Hampshire; and Jordan van Wezel and wife Maddie of Natick, Massachusetts, along with several nieces and nephews across New York, California, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
No formal services will be held immediately, but a military service is planned for spring or summer at Plain Cemetery in Weathersfield, Vermont, with the date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:
- Friends of Veterans, 28 Farmvu Drive, Suite 3, White River Junction, VT 05001 https://fovvtnh.org/donate-to-fov
- New Hampshire SPCA, 104 Portsmouth Ave, Stratham, NH 03885 https://nhspca.org/donate-today-2
Sylvia Columbia’s legacy as a devoted mother, compassionate caregiver, and proud veteran will be remembered by all who knew her.
