Passing of Joseph “Kit” Sylvester #1243
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Sadly, I have learned that our friend and brother, Kit Sylvester, passed away on February 4, 2024 at the age of 88. Kit was not feeling well and went the hospital to be assessed. Shortly afterwards his health became worse and he passed away unexpectedly.
Joseph George Sylvester was known to all of us as “Kit” Sylvester. He was a member of the Bowness Police Department from 1959 to 1964 and when Bowness was annexed to the City of Calgary, he joined the Calgary Police Service. (As I typed this, I swear I heard my old Drill Sergeant bark, “Calgary Police Force!”)
Kit was present at Black Friday in 1974 and was seriously wounded in the shootout. He was struck by a bullet in his neck and thanks to efforts of his fellow officer, Det. Roy Evans and the quick response of emergency medical crews Kit luckily made a full recovery from that event.
In 1976, Kit was promoted to Sergeant. He held the title of Chief Range Officer and taught many of us to shoot and handle our firearms properly. Kit successfully participated in many marksmanship competitions as well. Kit was also my Drill Sergeant when I was a recruit in 1977. He fit the role of a Hollywood Drill Sergeant perfectly and there are at least 200 of us who went through classes during those years who vividly (and fondly) recall the days of “Drill” and the Sergeant who taught us how to march, even those who’s coordination was severely challenged. Kit was also a long time member of the CPS Pipe Band.
After 29 years, on February 28, 1989, Kit retired and went on to enjoy a full and well deserved retirement with his wife of over 50 years, Gracie.
If you would like to reach out with words of support to Gracie, please email her at: sylvestergrace1@gmail.com
Kit’s niece, Sheila Morales, has been very helpful to her Aunt and has offered to print off any emails that come for her, so if you wouldn’t mind, could you please place Sheila’s email in the CC portion of the email: babycairogirl@gmail.com
In keeping with Kit’s wishes, there will be no service held.
Mike Turcotte
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