Sylvia N. Harpenau

Sylvia N. (Zoll) Harpenau, passed away on April 9, 2026, at the age of 99. Born on July 30, 1926, in Tell City, Indiana, she lived a life marked by devotion to her family and faith.

Sylvia was a woman of deep creativity and warmth, embracing a variety of hobbies that enriched her days. She found joy in crafting, painting, and gardening, often bringing beauty and color into the lives of those around her. A passionate reader and lover of puzzles, she exercised both her mind and spirit throughout her life.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence. Sylvia was a past member of St. Mary’s Navilleton Catholic Church and a long-time, active member of St. John Paul II Catholic Church. She was also proud to be a member of several organizations, including the Daughters of Isabella, the Knights of Columbus Auxiliary in Jeffersonville, and the Ladies Auxiliary VFW in Tell City, where she contributed generously of her time and talents.

Sylvia was married for 57 years to her beloved husband, Andrew L. Harpenau, whom preceded her in death. Along with her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents, Edwin Zoll Sr. and Sarah Pyle Zoll; brothers, Edwin Jr., Earl, Wilfred "Pete", and James Zoll; sister, Caroline Ballman, and daughter-in-law, Debbie Harpenau.

She is survived by her devoted children: Charlotte (David) Cooley, Marvin Harpenau (Lynn), Benita (Rodney) Pate, Stephen (Theresa) Harpenau, and Sharon (William) Dobis. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Scott (Stephanie) Cooley, Ann Moore, Jennifer (Phillip) Thomas, and Amy (Mac) Miller; as well as her great-grandchildren Andrew Moore, Caitlynn (William) Wilson, Bailey (Adam) Pitts, Jake (Addison) Cooley, Jaslynn Thomas, Luke Thomas, Holden Thomas, and Maggie Miller. Sylvia’s family is further blessed by two great-great-granddaughters, Harper Pitts and Lucy Pitts. She is also survived by her sister, Martha Buechlein; and sisters-in-law, Yvonne Zoll, Jane Lee Zoll-Corley, and Mary Margaret Harpenau.

Throughout her remarkable life, Sylvia exemplified grace, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those she held dear. Her memory will be treasured by all who knew her, and her spirit will continue to inspire the generations that follow.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany). Visitation will continue from 8:30 am until 9:30 am on Friday at the funeral home. Her Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am on Friday, at St. John Paul II Catholic Church (2253 W St. Joe Rd, Sellersburg). She will be privately laid to rest with her husband, Andrew, at St. Mary's Navilleton Catholic Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Sylvia's memory can be made to the Daughters of Mary of Nazareth at St. John Paul II.

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