Sylvia Medel-Sturgis

04/21/1948 – 10/02/2023 

It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of our beloved Sylvia. 

The firstborn child of Albert and Carmen Medel, Sylvia, along with her six siblings, was raised in the Carpinteria foothills and graduated from Carpinteria High School in 1966. Putting herself through beauty school, she became a hairdresser and held a career for many years. She married Ronald Sturgis and together they raised their four children. They moved to Paso Robles and later returned to the beaches of Carpinteria, where Sylvia greeted and fed many Carpinteria students as a “cafeteria lady.” 

Some of our family’s fondest memories were spent at the beach from sunup to sundown, backyard cookouts, walking to Carp Point at sunset and dancing on the sand.

Retiring from CUSD in 2017, she and Ronn moved to Oregon to be closer to their three children.

Sylvia was best known for her generosity, radiant smile, sense of style, delicious cooking, beautiful gardens and dancing at any given opportunity... even if it meant dancing with a doorknob!

Her deep faith in Jesus gave her strength, peace and comfort as she courageously fought these last few years.

Her fun-loving personality made it easy to adore her and impossible to forget her. She has left an indelible imprint on those she loved, and she will be greatly missed by many.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Ronn, and their children Kristi Siroshton (Jim), Matthew (Brenda), Renee Faoro (Geoff) and Angela Villa (Rob). Her 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. 

She is also survived by her siblings, Ben (Heidi), Len (Pam), Katheryn Boisen (Kent), Gogi Burquez (Tony), Terri Medel (Marty) and Andi Duffield (Mike). Sylvia was so very special to her beloved nieces and nephews, and was like a mother, and later, a Nana to them all. Sylvia also leaves behind numerous treasured cousins and friends, near and far.

Heaven opened its gates to welcome another angel, our angel, who will forever be in our hearts. Vaya con Dios, Beautiful Soul. Until we’re together again.

A Celebration of Life will be held next summer, July 6, in Carpinteria.