Gowanda: Gertrude “Gertie” L. Syper, 99, a resident of Gowanda Rehab & Nursing, formerly of East Main Road, Sheridan, died Saturday, March 8, 2025 at her residence. She was born on December 21, 1925, the daughter of the late Calvin and Blanche (Seekings) Saunders.
Gertie was a graduate of Dunkirk Public Schools as an LPN in 1975, then worked private duty in Dunkirk and at Brooks Memorial Hospital. She also worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse for Fenton Park Nursing Home in Jamestown for 11 years.
Gertie was a member of the former Sheridan Happy Seniors, former Pioneer Social Club in Forestville & was a member of the RSVP for over 20 years. She was also a life member of the Sheridan VFW #6390, Ladies Auxiliary.
Her greatest love, besides her kids, was her dog “Dixie”. Gertie always kept track of all the family birthdays, loved playing cards & word seek puzzles and she had a great sense of humor.
Survivors include two daughters Frances Kaus, of Dunkirk, Marilyn Saletta, of Sheridan, four sons Calvin Saletta, of Charlotte, NC, Thomas Saletta, of Sheridan, Jerry (Shelly) Saletta, of Fredonia, Marty Saletta, of Sun City, AZ, and a brother Gorman Saunders, of Fredonia. Also surviving are eleven grandchildren, twenty-two great grandchildren and several nieces & nephews. Besides her parents she was predeceased by her first husband Marvin A. Saletta, her second husband Andrew Syper who died June 11, 2008; three sisters Sarah “Sally” Putney, Elsie Woleben, & Mary Blair; two brothers Gerald & George Saunders; three grandsons Marty Saletta and Clayton & Dawson McKinnon.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the family’s convenience. The family suggests memorials may be made to Sheridan Fire Department, PO Box 122, Sheridan, NY 14135.
Arrangements are by Riles & Woolley Funeral Home, Forestville. To post condolences or memories go to https://rilesandwoolleyfuneralhome.com.
1 Comment
Virginia T. Becker
Gertie was so full of fun and life! She always made me smile. My condolences to her family and friends with the wish that the memories of happier times will comfort you now and in the future.