With deep gratitude for the extraordinary life she lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Xenia Syz on October 1, 2026, at the age of 98.
Born in Zurich, Switzerland on November 26, 1927, Xenia lived a remarkable life that took her from Switzerland to Germany and, ultimately, to Canada.
From 1948 to 1960, Xenia studied acting and performed on stage and in film. These years reflected one of the qualities that would remain with her throughout her life: her independence and her determination to create a life on her own terms. In 1960, she began a new chapter, bringing her natural sense of style to her work as a women’s fashion buyer at a Zurich boutique. She remained there until 1966, when she married Harry Raoul Syz, her husband of 38 years.
Together, Xenia and Harry had three children: their son, Serge, and daughters, Tatjana and Alexandra.
In 1976, the family moved from Zurich to West Vancouver, where Xenia welcomed a new chapter of her life. She embraced her new surroundings with characteristic openness and warmth, forming many lasting friendships, particularly within the French and Spanish communities.
Xenia also had a deep capacity for compassion and a special connection with people facing mental health challenges. For 17 years, she volunteered at Canora Club in North Vancouver, spending time with members living with schizophrenia. She approached them with genuine warmth, respect, and openness, making people feel seen and valued. Her connection with those she met there was deeply meaningful to her and became an important part of her life.
She also continued her love of horses, spending time riding on the family ranch in Greenwood, BC. Though, true to her impeccable sense of style, her time spent in rubber boots was limited.
Xenia and Harry shared many wonderful experiences together, including season tickets to the symphony and cruise travels that took them to faraway places. Yet perhaps no place was more special to Xenia than her home in West Vancouver. She cherished the view and the life she had created there. She spent many happy hours in her pool and on the deck, enjoying the beauty of her surroundings and conversing with family and friends in one of the six languages she spoke fluently.
As the years passed, Xenia chose to remain in the home she loved. After Harry’s passing in 2004, she enjoyed classical music, reading, seawall walks and the WV Senior Centre. Her home remained a place where family, grandchildren and friends were always welcomed.
Xenia lived for nearly a century, across three countries and through many chapters of history. She was determined, cultured, stylish, curious, and fiercely independent. She had a strong sense of who she was and lived with a distinctive character and individuality that remained with her throughout her life. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life was one of her most remarkable qualities.
She will be deeply missed by her family and friends who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will live on in the people she cared for, and, most of all, in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A memorial service will be held in Zurich, Switzerland.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation on behalf of Hospice and Palliative Care.
May she rest in peace.
Serge Syz, with Tricia and Diego
Tatjana Ridenour, with Randy, Stephanie and Rick, Nick, Alex and Mahayla
Alexandra Syz, with Jessica and Max, Nadia, Raphael and Nelio
Diego Hagmann, with Lea and Svenja
Michael Widmann
October 14th, 2026
Thinking of all the good times wee shared with Xenia over the years. The memories will last forever. From swimming and having a drink afterwards in her lovely garden - to the French Group meetings and lunches in various places. Xenia was always in a happy mood and shared many memories from her exciting life. With our heartfelt sympathy to all the family. Blessings and love, Romy, David and family
October 8th, 2026
Dear Xenia,
When I was 20, I came to Vancouver to learn English and was lucky enough to live in your home for three months. I arrived as a young stranger from far away, and you welcomed me with open arms as if I had always belonged there.
What I remember most is how much we laughed together. Many evenings we shared a glass of wine, and you told me stories from your remarkable life, including your years as a model. You told them with such warmth and humour that I could have listened for hours. You were curious, sociable and full of life, and you made everyone around you feel at home.
Those months were among the most formative of my youth, and a big part of that was you. You inspired me more than you probably knew, and I have carried the memory of that time with me ever since.
Thank you for your kindness, your generosity and all the laughter. My heartfelt condolences to your family and friends.
With love and gratitude,
Ciril
October 7th, 2026
In Loving Memory of Xenia, Our Dear Miss Syz
I had the privilege of working with Miss Syz for approximately two years and getting to know the extraordinary person she was. She was loving, disciplined, and very generous, with a sense of style and elegance that I always admired.
I cared for her deeply and always felt that she held a sincere affection for me as well. I truly enjoyed her company, and her stories. I admired her dedication to taking care of herself, eating well, and staying active. Thanks to her, I also learned to love cats—a gift I will always carry with me.
She was a wonderful mother and an admirable woman who left a very special mark on my life. I will always remember her with deep admiration, gratitude, and affection.
My heartfelt condolences to her children, Sergei, Alexandra, and Tatjana, and to her entire family. I especially want to send my love to Tatjana and Randy, who cared for her with such love and devotion.
It was a true privilege to know you, dear Miss Syz. May you rest in peace.
Today, I light a candle in her honor and offer my prayers for her eternal rest, trusting in the promise of eternal life from God our Lord. Amen.
Write a Tribute
Please Note: Your tribute will NOT be posted until reviewed and approved by one of our staff.