Ryan, Sylvia Louise (Kaiser) - 69, Pugwash, passed away on Monday, December 15th 2025. Born in River Hebert, N.S. on April 10th, 1956 to the late Robert and Lucy (O'Brien) Kaiser, Sylvia grew up in Amherst, N.S. with her brothers and sisters who she often would lovingly share stories of their youthful adventures. She spent some years living in Toronto, Ont. before relocating to Dryden, Ontario. During her time in Dryden, Sylvia worked for the City of Dryden for 43 years beginning on the Parks Board then transitioning to the position of Caretaker/Maintenance which she held up to her retirement in 2018.Sylvia enjoyed many hobbies while in Dryden; She was active in darts for years joining many teams and taking part in many tournaments. As someone who found tranquility in the outdoors, many weeks of her summers were spent camping on the lake - Amesdale being her favorite spot surrounded by friends and family. During the fall months, she thoroughly enjoyed going out moose and deer hunting and when she chose not to hunt anymore, she looked forward to hosting her brother Dougie and brother-in-law Ronnie at her home when they would arrive from Southern Ontario for moose hunting. At Christmas time Sylvia beamed with excitement. A time of year so special to her, she always went all out to ensure the holidays went off without a hitch. The dinners with Sandra and Rick sharing memories and laughs and her visits with Eric and Vera - all done with her Santa hats in tow- filled her with such happiness. Although she enjoyed all things outdoors, her main sanctuary was her yard. With an educational background in horticulture and a deep love for all things gardening, she thoroughly enjoyed designing and transforming her space into the perfect oasis where she could relax. She could often be found sitting out on the deck or on the patio she constructed enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. It was in 2019 when Sylvia began her journey back to Nova Scotia - a dream she long held for her retirement.  She made a stop in Trenton, Ontario where she stayed with her daughter Tara and son in law Neill. In Trenton, she enjoyed the music concerts - The Irish Rovers specifically- and visiting the festivals taking place in the area, the Irish-Scottish festival being one she often fondly remembered. But the best memories were of sharing her horticulture and renovation knowledge with Tara and Neill. Many stories during these times brought her much laughter and joy as she reflected on them. Sylvia returned home to Nova Scotia in 2021, settling in Pugwash, an area she adored. A spot close to her siblings Gerald, Christine and Kim who she was so happy to spend time with again. She loved going down to the beach and spending a few hours. Whether she would be on the look-out for sea glass, walking up and down with her feet in the water, or enjoying a coffee sitting on the rocks, she often remarked how much she enjoyed being by the ocean again. A woman of so many talents, her list of skills seemed endless. Sylvia had a natural flair for interior design and a vast knowledge of home renovation and construction. Never one to shy away from any challenge, no matter how big or small, Sylvia would always roll up her sleeves and jump into any project and would always succeed with beautiful results each and every time. She had a heart that was made of gold. Generous beyond measure, she would always look out for others and offer her help wherever she could, whether she knew you or not. Sylvia was a mentor, an amazing teacher, a helpful guide and a listening ear to so many people throughout her life - a remarkable woman who will be truly missed more than words. Sylvia is survived by her daughter Tara Ryan (Neill), River Philip, N.S., sisters Sandra (Rick) Desaulniers, Dryden, Ont., and Christine Stiles, Amherst, N.S., brothers Gerald (Jean) Kaiser, Fenwick, N.S., and Eric Kaiser, Dryden, Ont. as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Sylvia was predeceased by her brother Robert Douglas (Dougie) Kaiser and sisters Carol Johnson and Kim Kaiser, nephews Josh and Curtis Desaulniers and Keith Kaiser as well as her brother-in-law Ron Johnson and sister-in-law Vera Kaiser. Arrangements are in the care of MacDiarmid's Funeral Home and Crematorium. At Sylvia's request, no service will take place.