April Sylvia was the heart of our family—a mother, Nana/Grandma, daughter, sister, and aunt whose strength, kindness, and love shaped everyone blessed to know her. She passed away surrounded by love and leaves behind a legacy of compassion, faith, and joyful resilience.

April was known for her incredible work ethic, warm heart, and endless ability to care for others. From her early days growing up in Wisconsin to her wide-ranging careers—including working at a fish market, printing, managing real estate with her beloved husband Ronnie Wood, and running her own sewing business—April tackled everything with grit, grace, and generosity. She was also a talented seamstress, a loving hostess, and a savvy businesswoman.

She found joy in life's simple pleasures: mornings on the lake with coffee in hand, boat days with a perfectly packed cooler, and caring for every animal that needed a home. April loved the outdoors, carried a deep connection to the lake from her childhood, and found great joy in sharing that love with Ronnie and their family.

After Ronnie's passing in 2021, her grandchildren brought immense healing and comfort to her heart. She truly adored them and poured so much love, joy, and presence into every moment with them.

April was deeply faithful and believed in the beauty of God's promises, even in the hardest seasons of life. Her strength in faith carried her through all of life's hills and valleys.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband Ronnie Wood, and by her parents, Roman and Joy Katzer, who helped instill in her the love of the lake and the importance of family. She is survived by her daughter Amber Gilchrist, son-in-law Adam Gilchrist, and granddaughter Lauren Gilchrist; her son Chad Knaack, daughter-in-law Claire Knaack, and granddaughter Madilynn Knaack; her stepdaughter Cheryl Lee and son-in-law Jeremie Lee, and grandchildren Brett and Logan Davis, Noah Lee, and Jessica Wunsch (Daniel). She is also survived by her sister LeaAnn Hermsen (Mike) and brothers Matt (Kari), Roman (Julie), and Mark Katzer (Patty).

April was cherished by an extended family that includes not only her siblings and their children, but also Ronnie's family, who she always made sure to love as her own. She treasured her many nieces and nephews and found deep, personal connections with each of them. Her love extended far beyond blood, because to April, family wasn't just about relation. It was about love, loyalty, and presence. Every friend she made, she made feel like family; she gave them the kind of love and care that made them feel like they belonged, always.

April was a light to all who knew her—ever-evolving, joyful, and endlessly caring. A symbol of gentleness and transformation, butterflies were always meaningful to her, a reminder that angels are near. And now, like the butterflies she loved so dearly, she has spread her wings and become one of those angels—watching over us with beauty, strength, and grace.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in April's memory to ASPCA or Wounded Warrior Project.