Obituary: Syvilla Valera Rego

On Thursday, February 18, 2021, Syvilla Valera Rego, of Reedsburg, at the age of 89, peacefully passed. She was born in Loganville, WI. to Anna (Ribbke) and Henry Horstmann. As she grew up in Rock Springs she had many responsibilities as she was the oldest of 12. She was married to the late Patrick Rego.  With support from her family she overcame the great challenge of being widowed at the age of 30 with five children under the age of 12.

She is preceded in passing by her son Bruce; sister Anita Schoepp; and brothers Carl, Herman and Roy Horstmann.  Syvilla is survived by her daughter Patricia Rego; sons Philip (Kris) Rego, Steven (Janet) Rego, and Paul (Julie) Rego; grandchildren Thaddeus (Camilla), Trinket, Anthony, Hunter, and Connor. Also, by sisters Janette Ninneman, Lila Shimniok, Loretta Henry, Ellen Smallwood, Glenda Horstmann; brothers Henry and Reuben Horstmann; many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She waitressed for over 45 years. Most notably at Herman’s Supper Club and Pierce’s Supper Club in Baraboo. Syvilla, along with co-waiters Dorothy Steinhorst and Rita Burroughs became legendary as local icons in their profession. Syvilla found great joy in working and meeting people, so much so, that even at age 80 she was still employed at Land’s End.

 Syvilla loved her church and her bowling league. She had many talents and interests, including quilting, crocheting, playing cards, cooking and canning. Mostly she enjoyed sharing these passions with her family and others. She surely touched many by the quilts and afghans she lovingly crafted and donated.  Syvilla was also a dedicated blood donor and acquired many of the Red Cross gold pins given to gallon donors. She enjoyed country drives and admiring rural scenery.

A memorial service will be held at a later date when it is safer to gather and share memories. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the family which will be donated to the Rock Springs Community Center in Syvilla’s name. The family extends their gratitude to the staff at the Sauk County Health Care Center for all of their loving and wonderful care over the past few years.

Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg is assisting with the arrangements.