Sylvia Sharon Smith

Sylvia Sharon Smith, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2025, in Hayden, Idaho, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. Born on March 9, 1944, in San Diego, California to Grace E. (Koenig) and William E. De Hoff, Sylvia’s life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family, friends, and anyone in need. Her vibrant spirit and warm personality left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

A proud graduate of Rosary High School (Class of 1962) in San Diego, Sylvia furthered her education at San Diego State and Fresno State. In her professional life, she was the Secretary to the President at Solar Turbines in San Diego, as well as office manager and bookkeeper for Dave's Rep companies. She exemplified diligence and commitment in her work.

Sylvia was a woman of many talents and passions. She embraced life with an outgoing and friendly demeanor, making friends wherever she went. Renowned as the "Pie Queen," Sylvia’s baking skills were celebrated, and her cooking brought joy to countless gatherings. She loved to play cards and was quick to challenge anyone for a game of Skip-Bo. She was a Den Leader in Cub Scouts and supported her sons throughout their years in Scouting. She enjoyed hobbies such as playing piano, sewing, knitting, camping, and boating. Her adventurous spirit extended to travel as well; she proudly journeyed to Europe twice on her own, and with her family traveled throughout the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.  An accomplished skier and lover of the outdoors, Sylvia's zest for life was contagious.

She is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Dave, and their three sons: Steve, Jeff, and Jim, her grandchildren Jack and Chloe, along with her sister Marie (De Hoff) Slonski and her brother David De Hoff, all who fondly remember her as a source of inspiration, laughter, and unwavering support. Sylvia is also survived by cherished family members and friends who deeply appreciated her kindness and generous heart.

Sylvia will be remembered for her ability to make everyone feel cherished and her readiness to lend a helping hand. She is preceded in death by her cousin Don Boltz, sister-in-law Charlene DeHoff, and cousin-in-law Lloyd Richard, who surely welcome her with open arms.

As we reflect on Sylvia’s life, we celebrate her legacy of love, laughter, and a deeply-rooted sense of community. She will be missed but never forgotten, living on in the hearts of those who had the honor to know her.

There will be two memorial events, one in San Diego on April 25th, and one in Athol, Idaho on May 17th. There will be food and dress is casual.

For those who want to attend the memorial in San Diego, please RSVP to sylviasmith.sandiego@gmail.com

Where: Lake Jennings Park Estates Clubhouse; 9500 Harritt Rd.                     Lakeside, CA

     Time: April 25th 2-5 PM

For those who want to attend the memorial in Idaho, please RSVP to sylviasmith.idaho@gmail.com

     Where: Smith family home; 9363 E. Riley Loop, Athol, ID 83801

     Time: May 17th 2-5 PM

The family requests that in lieu of gifts or flowers, you consider a donation in Sylvia's honor to the Parkinsons Foundation www.parkinson.org or the charity of your choice. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories in the guestbook portion of this page.