It is with the deepest sadness that the Sypolt family announces the untimely and tragic passing of Shirley R. and Russell E. Sypolt Jr. on June 7th, 2022. Russ and Shirley fell in love in college and began their journey as husband and wife in 1974. They had three children Russell E. Sypolt III, Jason M. Sypolt, and Ryan A. Sypolt. After 47 years of marriage, they were still very much in love, evident by the way they still glanced at each other from across a room and how they were still playful and lighthearted in each other's presence. There was an unwavering dedication and devotion that we should all aspire to have with those that we share our lives with. They enjoyed gardening, philanthropy, Shetland Sheepdogs, and spending time with their loved ones. Shirley, daughter of Beinfield and Ruth Burnett (Fairbanks) was born on September 9th, 1953 in Prince Edward County, VA. Shirley was a retired teacher and member of multiple science organizations, which was her passion. Russ, son of Russell Sr. and Barbara Sypolt (Ellis) was born on May 27th, 1952 on Bolling Air Force Base. Russ was a retired Lieutenant Colonel and B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force. Their love of country was shared as well as their desire to contribute and give back to those they served beyond their professions. They will live in our hearts forever. From tragedy can come lessons. We don't always have tomorrow. Say the unsaid. Hold your loved ones close. Make every single moment count. The family will receive visitors at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home on June 26th from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 p.m. with military honors to follow at Parklawn-Wood memorial park.
While this obituary is a lovely tribute to this classmate and his dear wife, it doesn't tell the story of the actual tragedy that took their lives. It seems they died, together, in a house fire, but that is all I really know. What a terrible shock and loss for their families. Just as the words reflect in the obituary, one never knows from day to day, what will happen and that we may lose someone we care so much for.
Bonnie Bridger (Mittelmaier) (1969)
Dear Classmates,
While this obituary is a lovely tribute to this classmate and his dear wife, it doesn't tell the story of the actual tragedy that took their lives. It seems they died, together, in a house fire, but that is all I really know. What a terrible shock and loss for their families. Just as the words reflect in the obituary, one never knows from day to day, what will happen and that we may lose someone we care so much for.
Bonnie Bridger Mittelmaier '69