Sylvester “Syl” Stern, age 90 years, of West Bend was called home to be with the Lord on April 14, 2026 at Cornerstone Assisted Living surrounded by those who loved him dearly. Syl was born on November 1, 1935 in Kewaskum to Fred and Mathilda (nee Marquardt) Stern. He was united in marriage to Shirley Gahlman on April 14, 1956 and later married Eleanor Krahn on October 9, 1982.

Syl worked at the West Bend Company for 47 years, retiring in 2000. During that time, he served as the President of the Allied Industrial Workers Local 865. He held the leadership position for 28 years, during which time he became a prominent figure in the local labor movement and West Bend community. His background allowed him to sit on a Moraine Park Technical College Advisory Board for apprenticeships. Syl’s entrepreneur skills helped him start Syls Carpet Cleaning in 1977 which still carries his name to this day. As he moved into retirement, he held the position of Condo President for many years.

In his early years, you could always find him playing the accordion as others gathered in song or dance. Syl consistently attended his weekly sheepshead gatherings, often participating in local tournaments. He was truly a sheepshead king, often knowing your cards before you laid them down.

Those Syl leaves behind to cherish his memory include his children, Sharon (Dennis) Straub, Sue (Tom) Funk, Sandy (Randy) Justman, Jim (Edna) Stern, son-in-law, Dale Fies and stepson, Gary (Bonnie) Hahn. Syl is further survived by 10 grandchildren, 4 step grandchildren, great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Syl was preceded in death by his wife Eleanor, daughter, Kathy Fies, brother, Harold “Schnooky” Stern, sisters Evelyn Uelmen and Delores Petry.

VISITATION: Syl’s family will greet relatives and friends on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m., at Peace UCC Church (343 First Street, Kewaskum, WI 53040).

FUNERAL SERVICE: A funeral service for Syl will be held following visitation on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., at Peace UCC Church with Pastor Eric Kirkegaard officiating the service. Burial will take place at 3:30 p.m. at Peace Church Cemetery.

Syl’s family would like to thank all the staff at Preceptor Hospice (https://preceptorhc.com/) and Cornerstone Assisted Living (https://thecornerstoneassisted.com/) for their care and compassion over the past years treating Syl like he was their own father. Near the end, their care and loving arms brought joy when sadness was in the family’s heart.

The best way to donate on behalf of Syl, is by paying it forward. Give to those in need as he demonstrated.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Syl’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book can be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.