SARATOGA SPRINGS, NEW YORK -- Sylvia Ann Bierman of Rip Van Lane, died Wednesday, December 25, 2002 at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 51. Born on September 5, 1951 in Salt Lake City, Utah, she was the daughter of Sara (Spyker) Bierman of Salt Lake City and the late Ephraim Bierman. A Saratoga Springs resident for the past 17 years, she was a member of the Church of Latter-Day Saints in Saratoga Springs. Her favorite past time was playing tennis, as she was a member of the YMCA tennis league and many other organizations including the Eastern Outdoor Reps Association. Sylvia loved and enjoyed traveling, gardening, and most importantly, dedicating her life to her family and friends. She had a beautiful smile that lit up the world and an optimistic spirit that motivated others to follow her acts of kindness. She loved all with a deep devotion and selflessness. Sylvia will always be remembered by her courageous and caring heart, which filled others with a sense of hope and eternal warmth that will never be forgotten. She is survived by her three sons, Jason D. Smith and his wife, Charlene of Middle Grove, Adam J. Smith and his wife, Diane Pallone-Smith of Niskayuna and Jonathan J. Ferguson of Saratoga Springs; one daughter, Jessica A. Ferguson of Saratoga Springs; her brother and sister, Raymond Bierman and Dorothy Jensen, both of Salt Lake City, Utah; three grandchildren, Geremy Trentini, Zachary and Sydney Smith; several nieces and nephews; and her long time companion, Lee Gibeau and his children, Andrea and Danielle. A memorial service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 30 at the Church of Latter-Day Saints, corner of Glenmore and West Circular streets, Saratoga Springs (584-4796). Memorials may be made, in her name, to the American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Road, Loudonville, NY 12211 (800-227-2345). (584-5373 or burkefuneralhome.com)