Sylvester J. Garbo, 92, of Beaumont, died Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at Christus Hospital St. Elizabeth., an ordinary man who led an extraordinary life. As a young man he served in World War II and fought valiantly in the Battle of the Bulge. Upon resuming his civilian life, he met Katheryn who he affectionately called “Babe” and began a timeless love affair for sixty-two years. He was a police officer for the Beaumont Police Department for forty-three years, earning the respect and admiration of many people, especially those he called his “Pig Stand boys and girls.” He would often reminisce about the teenage antics he observed while working evenings at the popular South Park drive-in. He often told the kids to go home and be safe, which created a lasting impression amongst some of Beaumont’s future leaders. He also enjoyed favorite pastimes such as gardening and playing trombone in the Beaumont Community Band and the Orange County Band. He even had a small catfish pond where he often stood at the bank and with the clap of his hands would bring his “pets” to feed. Despite his attachment to his fish he invited children to throw a line in and try their luck. Through it all, his kindness and generosity was known by friend and stranger alike. He will truly be missed and remain forever in our hearts.
He is survived by the love of his life, his wife, Katheryn Garbo of Beaumont; son, John S. Garbo and his wife Nikki of San Antonio; grandchildren’s mother, Betty Jo White and her husband Randy of Dallas; beloved grandchildren, John Dominic Garbo, Anthony Joseph Garbo, Kari Michelle Linchman and her husband Jason; great grandchildren, Taylor Linchman, Carrissa Garbo, and Sydney Garbo. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Santa Parigi Garbo; son, Frank J. Garbo; and his brother, Salvador J. Garbo.
The family would like to thank Dr. Daniel Harmon and Linda Patterson for their dedicated care and support.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 31, 2009 at St. Pius X Catholic Church followed by burial at Forest Lawn Cemetery under the direction of Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont. A Christian Vigil will be 6:00 p.m. Friday evening, January 30, 2009 at the mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Sylvester’s memory to St. Pius X Catholic Church, 5075 Bigner Road, Beaumont, Texas 77708 or Police Benefit Association, P.O. Box 22722, Beaumont, Texas 77720.
Complete and updated information may be viewed at
www.broussardsmortuary.com
