St. Paul, MN—Sylvester Sy Cekalla, fondly remembered by his family and community, passed away on Friday, October 18, 2024, leaving a profound impact on those who knew him. His daughter, Jen Cekalla, recalls that her father was active and in good spirits throughout the day. Later, when checking on him, she found him peacefully lying in bed, looking toward the ceiling with a smile. Though paramedics did all they could, he had passed away.
Sy, as he was warmly known, shared an enduring bond with his late wife, Colleen. October 29 would have marked their 41st wedding anniversary. The family shared that Sy often spoke lovingly of Colleen, and in his passing, he left with a quiet smile, as though reuniting with her.
A fundraiser, organized by Jen, has been set up to support Jen and her brother, Jason, who now face significant financial strain. Sy’s unexpected passing has left the family struggling to meet essential expenses, including rent, due to the loss of his income and absence of a life insurance policy. The goal is set at $10,000, with $200 raised so far through an early donation by Christine Kaye.
The family plans to honor Sy’s wishes by cremating him and blending his ashes with those of Colleen. Arrangements for a celebration of life are underway, with details to follow. Jen and Jason shared how much they will miss Sy’s laughter, his joy in playing Cribbage, PayDay, and Monopoly, and the many stories he brought into their lives. In their message, they extend heartfelt thanks to those supporting them, whether through donations or simply sharing their story.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Cekalla family during this challenging time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Short Summary of Sylvester Sy Cekalla
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Sylvester Sy Cekalla |
| Date of Passing | October 18, 2024 |
| Fundraiser Created By | Jen Cekalla |
| Goal Amount | $10,000 |
| Amount Raised | $200 |
| Location | St. Paul, MN |
| Purpose | Funeral expenses, household bills, and honoring Sy’s wishes |
Note:This post was written and edited by Liam Johnson, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.