Obituary of Sylvia S. Hellstrom

Sylvia S. Hellstrom, 87, of Manchester, the beloved wife of 67 years to Melvin Hellstrom, passed away Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at St. Francis Hospital. Born in Manchester, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Bertha (Dey) Schneider and was a lifelong resident.

Sylvia was a graduate of Manchester High School, received her Associate Degree from Manchester Community College, her Bachelor’s Degree from Eastern CT State University and earned her Master’s Degree from UCONN. She retired having spent her career as a dedicated teacher in Manchester at Martin School and Bennet Jr. High School. She was a member of the ADK Teaching Sorority and was a very active member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in Manchester for many years. Sylvia and Melvin also had a tremendous love of travel, visiting many destinations around the world over the years.

In addition to her husband, Sylvia is survived by her daughter Diane Gawlinski and her husband Edward of South Windsor; her grandchildren Allison DeSimone and her husband Brett of Bridgewater, MA, and Benjamin Gawlinski and his girlfriend Laurie Vaillancourt of South Windsor; and her adoring great-grandchildren, Layla and Jude DeSimone, and Natalie, Samuel and Jacob Langille. She is also survived by her grandson-in-law Shane Langille of Pike, NH; her brothers Frederick Schneider of Florida, and Jonathan Schneider and his wife Joyce of Arizona; and several beloved nieces and nephews, as well as a wide circle of dear friends. She was predeceased by her granddaughter Erica Langille, and her sister-in-law Marion Schneider.

Calling hours will be held at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 West Center St. Manchester on Friday, June 2nd from 3:00-7:00 pm. A memorial service will be held at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 60 Church St., Manchester on Saturday, June 3rd at 11:00 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Endowment Fund at Emanuel Lutheran Church. For online condolences, please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.