Sylvia Nelson's Obituary
After a courageous battle with cancer and other health issues over the past few years, Sylvia Nelson passed away at the age of 81 on February 11th, 2025, at approximately 3 a.m. in her home in Minden, Nevada. She was surrounded by her three daughters, their husbands, and all of her grandchildren, including one great-grandchild. Sylvia’s primary residence for over 50 years was in San Carlos, California.
Sylvia Pariani was born to Robert and Anne (Paganini) Pariani on September 24, 1943, in San Francisco, California. She grew up in a close-knit Italian family alongside her brother, William, attending Catholic school and maintaining many lifelong friendships. After studying at UC Berkeley for a year, she married Ken Nelson for 13 years and together they had three daughters.
Sylvia had a remarkable career and a deep commitment to her community. Among her many accomplishments, she was a successful general contractor and real estate developer, served on the San Carlos City Council, was the Mayor of San Carlos, and served on the Sequoia Hospital Board of Directors. Sylvia also served on the Sequoia Foundation and the San Carlos Park & Recreation Committee. Above all, she was the heart and soul of her family, keeping everyone closely connected. She organized memorable family trips to destinations such as Hawaii, Alaska, Spain, Italy, New Zealand, Australia, and Tahiti—sparing no expense to ensure that her family’s bonds were cherished. Her generosity knew no bounds.
Sylvia is survived by a large, loving family who will forever be grateful for her presence in their lives. She leaves behind her three daughters: Kim Rosenmiller, Jeannie Nelson, and Krissie Carboni, along with their spouses - Alan Rosenmiller, Gareth Harris (fiancé), and Dean Carboni. She is also survived by her eight grandchildren: Heather Lutticken, Daniel Rosenmiller, Megan Lutticken, Sammy Carboni, Robbie Rosenmiller, Trevor Carboni, Ali Rosenmiller, Dominic Carboni, and her great-granddaughter, Primrose Carboni.
Services will be held as follows:
February 27th: Viewing at Crippen & Flynn Carlmont from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
February 28th: Funeral Service at St. Charles Church in San Carlos at 10:30 am
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Diabetes Association.
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