Sylvia P. Bongo

Niantic- Sylvia (Peterson) Bongo, 89, passed away peacefully with her daughter and sister at her side on Tuesday evening August 23, 2023 at the Lawrence and Memorial Hospital in New London, Ct after a brief illness.

She was predeceased by her late husband, Frank N. Bongo on March 16, 2020. Sylvia is survived by her younger sister Beth Peterson (George Welch), son Tom (Karen), daughter Terri, grandchildren Tom (Sarah), Jonathan (Lindsey), Cara, Alicia (Ken) and Alexandra, her great grand children Alan, Nick, Jeffrey, Jacob and Lucy. Also, her special niece Katharine (Joe) and family (Lily and Jack), and nephew Justin (Nicole). Born in Hartford, Ct on July 18, 1934, she was the eldest daughter of the late Philip J. “Buckshot” and Sylvia H. Peterson. She attended schools in the West Hartford school system and graduated from Mount St Joseph Academy in 1952.

In the late 1940’s the Peterson family began spending vacations at their summer home in the Crescent Beach area of Niantic. It was there she met her future husband, Frank. They were married on May 2, 1953 in Hartford, Ct. Mrs Bongo began working at the East Lyme High School in 1968 and retired as financial secretary in 1991. She was a friend to all the teachers, staff and students who passed through the High School over her career. During retirement she and Frank traveled throughout the United States and Europe. They were also members of the Vista Pines community in Stuart, Fl. for many years during the fall and winter months, a place they thoroughly enjoyed. Sylvia was an accomplished seamstress, quilter and baker. She provided cakes for weddings and special occasions for many families and friends throughout Connecticut. Holidays were special to her as she loved to provide delicious dinners, desserts and a warm, welcoming home to her family. Syl (as her friends called her) was an avid Majong player and loved teaching the game to her friends at Vista Pines and her home in Crescent Beach. Her family is deeply grateful to Robin Englemann, a dear friend, who cared for Syl in her home with much compassion over the last several months. Our sister, mom, grandma, great grandma and friend will be deeply missed.

Services will be private.

Please visit www.fultontherouxniantic.com for tributes.