With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard “Dick” Sylvester on November 13th at his longtime home in Morro Bay, with all his daughters by his side.
Dick was born in March of 1939 in San Luis Obispo to Pauline and Joseph Sylvester and was the oldest of five children. Dick spent most of his childhood between his grandparents’ ranch and the waterfront in Avila Beach. As he got older, he would help in the Sylvester’s Abalone Shop, and on his father’s fishing boat where they would catch salmon and crab. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting and working on welding projects. In 1960, Dick Sylvester wed the love of his life, Trudy (Pierce). In 1963 he purchased his fishing boat and named it the “Trudy S” after his young bride. Dick and Trudy had four daughters, and over the years they enjoyed countless family gatherings and barbecues. He was an avid spokesperson for the fishing community and was an influential part of the Morro Bay Commercial Fishermen’s Organization. He continued to fish commercially until 2017.
Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Trudy; siblings, James “Butch” Sylvester and Eleanor Lucas; and parents, Pauline and Joe Sylvester.
His life will be remembered by his daughters: Tina (John) Perry, Terry (Bruce) White, Tammy (Ron) Ellis, and Tracie (Russell) Mitchell; siblings: Edward Sylvester and Kathleen Luis; his ten grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held following the Holidays. Please contact a family member for details. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to:
Morro Bay Commercial Fishermen Org.
PO Box 450, Morro Bay, CA 93443
Please note with check: “For the restoration of the Trudy S”
