Francis A. Sylvester, Jr.

Francis A. Sylvester, Jr. age 78 of Sand Lake, passed away Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at his home. He was born March 16, 1944 in Woodbury, NJ the son of Frank and Rose (Carey) Sylvester. He had owned and operated Geets Diner and was a cattle farmer. During his life he was a 4-H leader, on the county fair board, a mentor for young men, a wrestling coach and had a passion for antique farm implements and paraphernalia. He created a scholarship program for Williamstown High School and donated a complex for Monroe Twp Youth Soccer Association. Francis was a mentor to many in the restaurant industry and a lifelong promoter of agricultural 4-H programs. He was a member of the American Angus Association, Mecosta County Fair, FFA and the Gloucester County 4-H Association. Surviving are his wife of 57 years, Bergetta; children, Kathryn (Jean Pierre) Fletcher, Francis (Jennifer) Sylvester III, Bergetta (Robert) Scavelli, Rose Greene, Amanda (Gene) Altieri III; grandchildren, McKinley Palmieri, Barrett Palmieri, Anna (Charles) Radashaw, Francis Sylvester IV, James Sylvester, Drew Sterling, Devon Sterling, Lawrence Greene IV, Minerva Altieri, Robert Scavelli, Malory (Frank) Gayeski, Tom Scavelli, John Scavelli; 4 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Anthony Sylvester. The family will greet friends Monday, January 9 from 10:00 am until time of Memorial Mass at 11:00 am at Christ the King Catholic Church, 9596 N. Reed Road, Howard City. Rev. Fr. James VanderLaan celebrant. Interment St. Mary's Cemetery, Sand Lake. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs.