Sylvia Reinagel

Sylvia Marie Reinagel was delivered into the hands of her heavenly family Wednesday, June 25, 2008.

She was born July 30, 1930, to Nicholas and Coena Welter Essner at New Hamburg, Mo. At the tender age of 3 she lost her loving mother to complications suffered during a pregnancy. It is told that her beautiful long hair had to be cut short so her dad could brush it easier. Her older sister Patsy took her under her wing and cared dearly for her.

Sylvia grew up on a farm, currently known as the Essner Farms, with her surviving siblings; a brother, Raymond Essner of Kelso, Mo., a stepbrother, Leo (Max) Fuller of Chaffee, Mo., a stepsister, Jerene Moore of Luxora, Ark.; three half-sisters, Rosie Horrell of Kelso, Margie Snider of Farmington, Mo., and Cecilia Margrabe of Jackson.

Other family members that now welcome her into her heavenly home include father, Nicholas Essner; mother, Coena; an infant brother, Melvin; stepmother, Mary; a sister, Patsy Ressel; and two brothers, Leon and Herb Essner.

Sylvia married the love of her life, Jim Reinagel, April 28, 1951, at St. Lawrence Church in New Hamburg, Mo.

She cherished her role as wife and mother. Together they willingly accepted six children from God. It was her life's work and joy to make a loving and happy home for these children. Her daughters are Bonnie (Roger) Arnzen, Susan (Scott) Kelley and Jane (Wayne) Unterreiner, all of Cape Girardeau. Her sons are Ron (Lori) Reinagel, Don (Cheryl) Reinagel and Jeff (Renee) Reinagel, all of Kelso.

Sylvia believed very strongly in the reality of Jesus Christ. She made it her mission to pass this belief on to her family and friends. It should be said that she was successful in her mission. Sylvia loved being a part of St. Augustine Catholic community in Kelso. She always claimed to be the church choir's biggest fan.

She had a playful spirit. She loved to play games, cards and bowl. She loved her flowers and her music. She loved to bake and was very talented in making those special sweet treats.

Christmas was her favorite time of year. She loved to decorate the home and made certain that she always directed a memorable celebration for the family with a strong emphasis on the spiritual side of the occasion. She cherished the memories that each Christmas season would bring.

In the last few years of her journey, she and Jim moved to Saxony Village in Cape Girardeau. She loved her duplex, Unit 61, and quickly made it her home. She enjoyed the community and residents, as well as staff members.

Most endearing to her were her grandchildren. She thoroughly enjoyed being "Grandma" and was extremely proud of each of her grandchildren. These include Stephanie and Andy Arnzen of St. Louis, Luke Arnzen of Columbia, Mo., Paul Unterreinner of Cape Girardeau, Sarah Unterreiner of St. Louis, Rachael Unterreiner of Springfield, Ashley, Adam, Nick, Matt, Erika, Courtney and Holly Reinagel of Kelso. Stepgrandchildren include Sarah (Derrick) Geringer of Tilsit and Erin (Rob) Woolf of Cape Girardeau. Great-stepgrandchildren include Drake and Ethan Geringer of Tilsit.

Her goals in life were simple: to enjoy life and help others enjoy it as well. Did Sylvia enjoy life? Without a doubt. Did she help others enjoy it? Absolutely.

Please join us as we celebrate the life of Sylvia Marie Essner Reinagel.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Kelso. Friday Parish prayers will be at 8.

The Mass of celebration will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the church. Graveside service will be held in the church cemetery immediately following.

Amick-Burnett Funeral Chapel in Scott City is in charge of arrangements.