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In Memoriam: Sylvia Wolinsky Kauders

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Sylvia Wolinsky Kauders

Sylvia Wolinsky Kauders

By Barbara Ann Zippi
Ciao Bella Living Italian Style

Sylvia Wolinsky Kauders, who worked for five Philadelphia mayors and later pursued a successful acting career, passed away on May 5 at age 94.

She was born in South Philadelphia to Russian immigrants, and raised in Upper Darby, Pa. She worked 28 years in public relations and special events for five Philadelphia mayors, ending with Frank Rizzo, then took up acting full time.

“The age range I give on my resume is ‘65 to death,’ ’’ she once said.

She may be best known for portraying Mrs. Conte, a character who unleashed a vile outburst at noisy neighbors on the HBO series “The Sopranos.”

“I got a kick out of it, everybody being so shocked that this sweet little old lady could say those words,” she stated. “I was never a beauty, but what I was, was talented and smart. Someone has to play the small roles, and I love the work.’’

Movie roles include: “Witness” (1985); “Crimes and Misdemeanors” (1989); “Manhattan Murder Mystery” (1993); “Predator 2” (1990); “City Hall” (1990); “My Life” (1993); “The Big Wedding” (1993); “Analyze That” (2002); “Mr. Deeds” (2002); “American Splendor” (2003); “The Wrestler” (2008); “Man on a Ledge” (2012); “Peeples” (2013); “Inside Llewyn Davis” (2013).

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