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Joel Silidker Obituary
347 Entries
Lisa Fresa
June 30, 2025
I have not found another doctor as caring and compassionate. I was happy to have met his son at one of our goldens of CT meet ups at Hammonasset beach in Madison . Truly one of a kind he passed the same day my mom did many years ago . I will never forget
Mindy Russo
July 1, 2024
Wow ~ 11 years ~ you still come up in conversation ~ and every time ~ it feels like a fresh loss ~ older now ~ going through some things ~ wish you were here ~ I know you would take my hand....
Barbara Piersanti
June 30, 2024
To this day I still miss him. He was one of a kind. He truly cared about all of his patients and was so warm and caring. Still haven´t met another doctor like him and I´m sure I never will. I will miss you always Joel and will never forget you. May your light always burn bright.
sally kalman
June 30, 2024
Hard to think Joel has been gone 11 years. I have yet to find another Dr. with the compassion and love for the work he did. I still can see his smile and the joy he always had on his face. Heaven found an angel the day he passed. I will always miss him
How you can show support
sally kalman
July 3, 2023
So hard to think you left us 10 years ago. You are still the best doctor I have ever had. Heaven took you way to soon...
Mindy Russo
July 2, 2023
Wow ~ 10 years ~ I can´t believe it ~ and so many of us still
Thinking of you and missing you ~ and not just at this time of year ~ I will never forget the day I found out you had left us ~ a whole piece of my world fell out ~ a piece I had always been very conscious of being grateful for ~ ALWAYS ~ I´ll never forget our first conversation ~ in the early 80´s ~ on the phone ~ you actually let me interview you to see if I wanted you to be my doctor ~ you had all the perfect answers ~ and they were all true and exactly who you were. You will always be missed ~ and thought of so lovingly ...and with so much respect ~ I need to say ~ no one else can fill your gloves ... rest well knowing how many lives you have so caringly touched ~
Pat Savo
July 2, 2023
Wow 10 years, hard to believe, still very much missed. A great man. Lost my husband just shy of 62 in a freak accident 2 years ago. Puts it all in a different light. I hope the pain eases with time. They are together. They liked each other, 2 great men. God bless.
Renee
July 1, 2023
I remember meeting you as a bright, kind, friendly intern. Joel, you never lost that compassion I saw that first day. You were always there for your patients and the staff. A greater doctor one couldn't find! May you continue to Rest in peace my friend.
Deb Barry
July 1, 2023
Will never forget you. Was a patient of your for 23yrs. You were a jokester. But I returned the favor. After I had weight loss surgery and didn´t tell you. You thought you walked in the wrong room Cathy was in on it too she told you you had the right room and you walked back in Cathy behind you me laughing her laughing you asking what´s so funny. And how you were looking for me. Cathy goes she right here. I sat there laugh you go Cathy she clearly is not I went from 315 to like 140. Boy we got you good. Your coffee cup alway got me. You always had kind words compassion and knew what to say. I will never forget you
Barbara P
July 1, 2023
It´s hard to believe it´s been ten years since we lost such a wonderful man. As a doctor there could be no other like him. He is still thought of and missed. He will never be forgotten. May his light always shine on.
Anne Szeligowski
June 30, 2023
Gone 10 years and still missed for his brilliant compassion.
Barbara P
July 6, 2022
I still think of you often especially around this time that you left us. There will never be another doctor like you!! I miss you still.
Liz Gillespie
June 30, 2022
I miss you so much Joel, you were truly amazing and were loved by so many. Best doctor ever and a beautiful human being inside and out. Hugs to your cherished family.
Barbara A Allen
March 2, 2022
You saved my life by doing a surgery that none of your partners would attempt. You were the finest of them all, and it has taken me all these years to write this. You were amazing, genuine and beyond talented. I know how your family must miss you, because no one will ever be as wonderful as you are.
Barbara P
July 6, 2021
Thinking of you today on 8 years since your passing. You were my doctor since early 80´s. There will never be a doctor like you. Your humor and compassion was like no other. You will never be forgotten. Your time here was way too short but your accomplishments and great care for patients like me will last in our hearts forever
Jeanne Barth
July 3, 2021
I still miss Dr Silidker, he was an amazing doctor!
Anne Szeligowski
July 2, 2021
I read several of the tributes posted here 8 long years since we lost you. I have my own story...fertility issues, miscarriages, your promise I would have a baby. Your being at the hospital, taking my son from my body and introducing us. I cherish your part in my life. You are still a joyous memory. Blessings to Tina and your sons.
Tina Silidker
July 1, 2021
We ( his family and close friends) knew how special Joel was, and I miss him every day. 8 yrs, wow! I treasure these remembrances from so many others that capture him and his personality so beautifully. They will be a wonderful tribute for his grandchildren to see one day. Lost so unexpectedly and at such an early age, these help keep his "light burning brightly". Hugs to you all.
Ti Solomine
July 1, 2021
I still think of you often, the best and most caring Doctor I´ve ever had.
Deb Barry
June 30, 2021
Wow. Time flies. Met your son Aaron. We both have goldens turns out. 8 years. Every time I see a spilt coffee cup I think of you. You were my fav doc and still are. Never forget the joke I played on you after my weight loss surgery and Cathy was in on it. You thought you walked in on the wrong patient. It was great. Heard you asking Cathy where I was and her telling you I was in that room and you saying someone else was in there. Cathy and I got the biggest laugh.
Mindy Russo
June 30, 2021
I can´t believe it´s been 8 years ~ I was just speaking of you the other day and I still had to hold back tears ~ you are still deeply missed and will never be forgotten ~
Laura D'Avanzo
February 18, 2020
The first time I met you my mom was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Over 34 years ago. you were so kind and caring even as a new doctor and young yourself. I then has my daughter become sick with cyst. She went to the ER where she met you. You did 3 surgeries on her and gave her the quality of life she deserved. I do believe in fate, this was what kept brining us together. My daughters and I miss you so very much. Your were more than a doctor, you were humane and caring. We still speak of you and miss you very much. No one will ever take your place Joel!
Barbara Chase
February 16, 2020
It has been 6+ years since your passing and there is still a void in my heart. I will never forget how good you were to me when I was in your office. Today I thought about you when I was telling my son about the day you circumcised him. I insisted on being there when you did it and you told me that it wasn't allowed. But I insisted and told you that I waa going to be there for my son for every bump, bruise and stitch. So you let me watch. For that I thank you. And I kept true to my word. My son is almost 25 a USMC veteran and an amazing young man. After I told him about that day he said.. He did a good job :). I wish you were here so I could tell you the story and we would both get a good laugh.
Gone but never forgotten.
sally Kalman
July 2, 2019
To this day I've yet to find a doctor so caring and kind as Joel. I think back when I couldn't get pregnant with my daughter, after finding out the reason Joel said not to worry he'd have me pregnant in no time. I laughed, talk about service, we both had a good laugh after that one. Still that best doctor I have ever had, still thought of and missed
Letitia Solomine
June 30, 2019
Remembering one of the most caring and wonderful doctors.
Mindy Russo
June 30, 2019
Its been 6 years ~ I still miss him, and I know I am not alone frustrated there is no category for patient, by the way
Deb Barry
October 21, 2018
For some reason i thought of you the other day. Probably when my mom in law told me she was having her mammogram. Wish other doctors could be like you
Mindy Russo
October 20, 2018
We were all so blessed to have had him in our lives ~ and even as just' my cherished Dr for 30 years ~ he is never that far from my thoughts ~ or my heart.
Sharon Cassidy
October 19, 2018
Some how thinking about you this evening.. amazing doctor and friend.. loved by all you were blessed to know you.. thank you for being you
Christina Kozlowski
October 16, 2016
Dr Silidker delivered my firstborn son, and he was my ob-gyn for a period of a few years. He was beyond wonderful- a truly kind and warm human being, with a bedside manner that every clinician should attempt to emulate. I am so very sorry to hear of his passing, and I am so very sorry that I'll never see his kind face again. G-d rest you, Dr Silidker. You did so much good while you were here on earth.
Barbara P
July 9, 2015
Two years ago on July 6th we lost a great doctor and a great man. He will forever be missed.
Roslyn Hamilton
July 1, 2015
It was 1 yr ago I learned Joel had passed6 away.
Shock, disbelief and sadness grabbed me all at once. We met at Women's Health Services. It had been yrs since I had an appt. Went into menopause effortlessly and without any drama.
I will always think of him and smile.
I gave him the Fly poster. Roslyn H.
Joyce Davis
May 30, 2015
I am so saddened to hear of Joel's death. I was the Clinic Coordinator At YMS when Joel first started his residency. He stands out to me more than any other resident or Dr.in all of my time at Yale. He was always in a good mood, joking, smiling and cheering everyone up! I left Yale in 1984, but saw him again in 1990. I had suggested Joel to my son when he and his wife became pregnant and was sitting in a small waiting room outside of the birthing room when Joel appeared through the door. I had not worked at Yale for 6 years, but Joel remembered me! He had just delivered my Grandson and he said Joyce! What are you doing here? Don't tell me that Joe is your son...well if Joe could have climbed into that bed and had that baby for his wife, he would have! What a husband! He gave me a hug, saying Congratulations! You have a new Grandson! He was as sweet and caring as I had remembered him! I'm certain that he will be missed by everyone that ever came in contact with him! My condolences to his family! He was a wonderfully special human being!
Susan Richman
May 7, 2015
when you start out as a wonderful human being like he was, you can become such an amazing caregiver...there will always be a Joel sized hole in the world...I still expect his daily 7 am call to check in with me...
Robert Schnurr. md
May 7, 2015
Every time I do a biopsy I give the patient a piece of good chocolate. I tell her I learned this from my friend who died way too young and doing this helps me think of him
Deb B
May 6, 2015
it was weird and hard to go for a check up and not have you, I still cant believe it. your hugs, your humor, and how you listened to your patients. we even joked about my 5 volumes. there should be more doctors like you
Lynn Thompson
May 5, 2015
I just learned this afternoon that Dr Silidiker had died! I was stunned & sadened to hear this news! I had a very high risk pregnancy in 1982. I was sent to Yale for treatment. Joel was a senior resident. He was one of the first people to come in & introduce themselves to me. He was so handsome! He was also very warm & sympathetic. I soon discovered he had a great sense of humor. I could tell he was very well liked by the nursing staff. I was a nurse. I knew full well that if the nurses liked working with certain docs those docs were very special. I was on the L&D unit for 2 long weeks. I spent the entire summer driving back to Yale every week. It was decided I would deliver my baby at Yale. John Hobbins was the doc in charge. He asked me who would I like to deliver my baby. Without hesitating, I asked for Joel. He was to start a different rotation the next day. I was devastated! But Dr Hobbins stepped in & Joel cared for me for a long, 23 hr induction & delivered my baby! I remember hearing him clomping down the hall in his clogs! I cringed knowing when I heard the sound of those feet that he was coming back to check me again! Despite slow progress, he was supportive & encouraging. He & the nursing staff worked so well together & got me through a long, difficult labor! I will never forget his pleasant demeanor & skill as a young doctor. My sympathy to his family, friends, colleagues, & patients. We will all mourn the loss of a fine doctor & a beautiful human being!
March 19, 2015
I am so sad to have just learned that Dr. Silidker has passed. I was calling the office to set up an appointment for my 18 year old daughter whom he delivered as well as my other 3 children. Originally 27 years ago when I found out I was expecting my first child I called Yale New Haven Hospital to find out a doctor they would recommend and they suggested Joel! He really was a phenomenonal doctor and loved his humour, gentle caring approach to his patients. He was also amazing at keeping my nervous expecting husband together during the delivery! He was the best!! Thank you for all that you did for our family! Norma Savarino
Priscilla Blake
July 8, 2014
It has been a year of Dr. Silidker's passing and I still can't believe it. He was my doctor for over 28 years. I feel like I lost my best friend and don't know why he is gone. I guess God needed another ANGEL!!!
Andrea Daniels-Singleton
July 8, 2014
Wow! I just recently learned of Dr. Silidker passing. He was an awesome man! full of humor :-) Dr. Silidker delivered both of my children. I am deeply sadden that I didn't have the opportunity to pay my final respects but, i will hold the memories close to my heart. May God bless his family.
Laura Lasala
July 7, 2014
One year has past since I read of Dr. Joel Silidker's passing. Still sad and sending good thoughts to his family. My heart goes out to you all.
Nicole Redos
December 9, 2013
Dr. Silidker was an angel in my eyes. My labor started great and then turned into a nightmare. I almost lost my first born child but Dr. Silidker worked so fast and saved my beautiful boy with an emergency C-Section. When I got pregnant four years later I asked Dr. Silidker if he would please deliver my second child. Not only did he deliver my beautiful girl on August 31, 2009 but he waited at the hospital until after 8pm because he knew how important this was to me. I will be praying for your family and your loss. With loving prayers and thoughts, Nicole Redos.
December 4, 2013
I learned today of Joel's passing. I am heart broken.I credit him and his group with saving my son's life. I remember thanking him afterward and telling him" after 4 normal pregnancies and 3 natural deliveries I thought wow all the time effort and money spent on prenatal care and hospital deliveries I could have just given birth at home. That was until # 4 came along and everything went wrong."He knew me so well that when he offered me choices he already knew the answers.My emergency C section resulted in a healthy child who is now 21 years old.When we moved away 12 years ago I kept in touch with a Christmas card and a letter that I always asked him to share with Tracy my favorite midwife. I can think of at least 4 occasions when he called me at home in response to one of my announcements or letters.When we adopted our 2 youngest I sent announcements that prompted him to call to congratulate us.My husband took him and one of his sons on a tour of Sikorsky Aircraft many years ago as his son expressed an interest in engineering.My husband had to call in more than a few favors to make it happen.Security was always tight there but as my husband put it " I would do anything for him". This year in response to my letter I received a note from Tracy by e-mail.I feel blessed to have known him, may he rest in peace, and may God bless and comfort his family.Pat Savo Mont Vernon NH.
Robin Coon
December 2, 2013
I was about to throw out my son's GWU magazine, and noticed Dr. Silidker's name, and then realized it was in the In Memoriam section, and I was shocked. He delivered 3 of my 5 sons. I am tremendously saddened. He was a great doctor with a fun sense of humor. I will miss him.
Kendra Carter
November 13, 2013
I absolutely loved Dr. Silidker! He was so pleasant and made me feel so comfortable each and every time I had to see him. May he rest in peace and be surrounded by God and His angels!!
JoAnn Elvin
November 13, 2013
Just add a note?..I could write a book! Joel was my Doctor for some 34+ years, moreso my friend most of those years! He comforted a frightened young girl, & lastly told me I was an "old soul". The world has lost one of those "special" kind of people who make the world a better place, just by being in it. My sincere deepest sympathy, I raise him & his family up in my prayers.
Kathleen Spencer
November 12, 2013
I stopped by to see an old (101) friend of Tina's mom and I mentioned I sent a Yarzeit for Flo (Tina's Mom) and she told me of Joel. He was such a kind man and loving to family. My heart goes out to Tina and the boys.
Ammie Wilson
October 30, 2013
It took me a minute to get myself together to write this. I am still in disbelief. I am very sad today, I lost the best doctor I've ever had. Dr. Silidker became my doctor 22 years ago when I was pregnant with my son. He always asked "how's the family" even though he never met them! He was my go to doctor when I wanted a second opinion. You were never treated like a number. He was one of a kind.
My condolences go out to his wife, kids and family. We lost a gem.
Sally Kalman
October 21, 2013
So sadden to hear of Dr.Silider's passing. If it wasn't for his dedication to his work I would have never become a mother. Truly a wonderful Dr. and a lovely human being, he will be missed. My condolences to his family.
Barbara Schuler
October 5, 2013
I recently learned the Dr. Silidker passed away. I send my heartfelt sorrow and sympathy to his family. I worked w/Joel at Temple Surgicenter when I lived in Conn. Having moved to Texas in 1994, I kept up w/the group thru my daughter, who lives in Conn.
My experience w/ Joel was a warm and friendly one-- His kindness was a blessing to all who were fortunate to know him.
My deepest sympathy,
Barbara Schuler
Elizabeth Pritts
September 30, 2013
I just learned that my friend, mentor and teacher Dr. Silidiker has passed away. I was at Yale for residency and fellowship training 1994-1999 and Dr. Silidiker took me under his wing the first night we worked together. I remember him telling me a story about going home after a 36 hour shift and watching Tarzan wrestling an alligator in a black and white movie and falling asleep just at that moment. He told me how hard internship was and how tired he was when he did it. He offered to help me make it through, and to teach me all he could. I went home after my 36 hour shift and found an old Tarzan movie and watched it, and yes as the alligator and Tarzan wrestled, I fell asleep. That became the tradition that got me through a tough and wonderful residency at Yale, and Joel was there often helping me through. I send my thoughts and prayers to his family. He was a kind and wonderful man.
James Kozlowski
September 24, 2013
I have just learned of the passing of a most compassionate, kind, cand professional man. You were a tremendous blessing to my family, and I'll never forger watching you perform the surgery on my wife for my son. You are truly missed, and we all are deeply saddened by your passing. Many blessings to your family, friends, and coworkers.
Anne Szeligowski
September 5, 2013
We have lost a man of miraculous joy and hope. I knew Joel for 30 years; now I feel such an emptiness. Joel, Tina and the family will be in my daily prayers.
Adrian and Joe Fortier
August 24, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Dr. Silidker's family and co-workers. He was a very caring doctor and person
J A
August 21, 2013
Dr. Silidker was my doctor for over 25 years. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. He was a wonderful, caring, compassionate doctor that will never be forgotten. It was an honor and pleasure to be your patient. May you RIP!
Vicki Earl
August 20, 2013
I just learned of Dr. Silidker's passing today. He was such an amazing man. Although he was not my primary doctor, it was a pleasure seeing him during both of my pregnancies. He was so pleasant, my thoughts are with your family.
Vicki
Anita Visentin-Perito
August 12, 2013
I was so saddened to hear of Dr. Silidiker's death today. He was always so kind and compassionate to me and my husband. He was my first ob/gyn- was the doctor that had the misfortune to deliver my twins prematurely. I will never forget that he sat with my husband and I and cried. He was so blessedly human and kind. May his memory be a blessing, I know that knowing him was a blessing for me and my husband.
Danielle
August 12, 2013
I will never forget Dr. Silidker. He was the first to pick-up my daughter's heartbeat on the Doppler. He told us he would either be the hero or the enemy as we might not be able to hear it so early. It came up right away and he laughed and said he was glad to be the hero. I'm so sorry to his family - the practice is losing a good man.
A.M.
August 8, 2013
I was shocked and saddened to learn today of Dr. Silidker's passing. Dr. Silidker was on call the day my daughter was born. Although he was not my primary doctor , Dr. Silidker treated me as if he had known me for years. My husband and I were both so impressed with his compassionate nature.
I will always have fond memories of Dr. Silidker .
Christina
August 7, 2013
I'm so very sorry for your loss. I've enjoyed working with him over the years as a nurse at Yale
Danielle
August 5, 2013
I am so saddened to hear of Dr. Silidker's passing. I went through lots of hard times and bad experiences with past doctors. Dr. Silidker was highly recommended to me. The first time I met him, he asked why I left the other practice. We talked about things and he was so understanding of what I went through And assured me that I would never feel that way at his practice. I never felt more comfortable with any other doctor before. He was definitely one of a kind and he was a very sincere, caring and wonderful man. He will me missed deeply.
Catherine Logan
July 31, 2013
Dr. Silidker was a kind, friendly and loving man, and I know this is a great loss to your family. I only knew him as my doctor, but he had a great impact on me. He was a charmer. I wlll keep your family in my prayers.
Thanks, Joel, for our beautiful son! And later, our lovely daughter...
Ana Arellano
July 30, 2013
Because of Joel my husband and I have two beautiful and loving children - though read on, this is not what you will expect. After a difficult year of trying to become pregnant, Joel met with us in his office. He said, "You are not going to want to hear this now, but keep it in mind for the future." He told us to consider adopting, and gave us a booklet from an agency. We tried to have a biological child for several more years, Joel close by our side as we mourned a difficult miscarriage.
A couple of years later, when we saw a friend's lovely adopted daughter, we remembered Joel's words. We adopted both our children, who are now adults.
At the last appointment I had with Joel, about a year ago, we reminisced about our long relationship, and he said I was one of his first patients. He always asked about the kids. I said to him that he was the first person to mention adoption to us, and he was very surprised - pleasantly, as he had not known this. I am glad that the last time I saw Joel was such a warm meeting for both of us.
Melissa "Blissa" Jaffrey Magee
July 30, 2013
Dear Tina, Mark and Lenny: I was so saddened to read about Joel's passing. While our families have not seen each other in years I have always had a special place in my heart for all of you. I remember Joel's kindness and compassion when Alan passed away and I still have the note he sent us. My heart breaks for all of you. Please know you are all in mine and mother's thoughts and prayers.
July 30, 2013
I am very saddened to hear of Dr. Silidker passing. I will never forget the moment my first daughter was born and he stood arms crossed next to my husband and said "pretty cool huh?" My thoughts are with his wife and sons.
Patrick Duff
July 29, 2013
Tina,Jordan and Aaron.I am so sorry for your loss.Joel was not only a dear friend but a real insperation to me.I have meet very few people who loved life as much as he did! His love for Tina and pride and love for Jordan and Aaron was immeasurable.As much enjoyment and happieness as he took out of life,he gave even more back! Not only did Joel bring so many into this world he also would continue to help and be there to get through life. He was there for my wife and family during Cyndie's breast cancer.He deliverd my daughter and has been there for her for the past 27 years.My wife would tell people my husband has a gynecologist.Joel was always there to help and guide me.
I will greatly miss my neighbor,my consigliere and most of all my friend!
This world will be a lesser place without him!
My his memory be a blessing!
I love and miss you!
Donna
July 29, 2013
I am so saddened by the loss of my beloved Dr. Silidker. He truly was a rarity in the medical community - I never felt rushed during my appointments and I always felt like he was listening to me. After an uncomfortable procedure last fall, he met me in his office with a chocolate bar and kind words. He always asked about my family and spoke with pride and joy when talking about his own family.
I know I will never find another doctor like him.
Praying for peace for his family.
Dr Silidker, it was an honor and privilege to be your patient
Donna
July 29, 2013
I am deeply saddened by the news of Joel's passing. He was my doctor as well as a friend for more than 25 years. I will miss his friendly smile and his fabulous medical care. My heart breaks for his wife and sons.
Jeanne McFarland
July 29, 2013
I am so sorry to hear Dr Silidker has passed. He helped me through a difficult pregnancy with his positive attitude. He always took the time to listen and could read between the lines when something else was bothering me. He was such caring compassionate person. My heart goes out to his family. He will be truly missed by many many people.
Julie Ball
July 28, 2013
After sifting through all the mail after a weeks vacation I came across the envelope from the office. I thought they were announcing a new member to their staff or a retirement notice.As soon as I read the first sentence I was so sickened with this news that I couldn't read any further and my husband had to finish reading it. I am still trying to comprehend this tragic loss of such a fine human being . I have been his patient for 25 years and he was there for me during so many difficult times. Dr. Joel you will be missed. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family and colleagues.
Jeanne Collier
July 28, 2013
July 28, 2013
My heart goes out to Tina and her sons at the sudden loss of her husband and their father. Joel appeared in good health and spirits at our last recital at the Neighborhood Music School in June. No one would have expected such a loss to occur so suddenly. As a member of the same class, I saw him as as a vital member of all the Cabaret classes. He was well-liked by all. He offered encouragement to other members with a few kind words and a big smile. Our class won't be the same without him. He will be sorely missed and we will remember him with fondness and sadness. I offer my condolences.
July 27, 2013
I just received notification via Obstetrics-Gynecology and was greatly saddened by the passing of this very personable soul. He always was very concerned with how things were going.
Chris Lynch
Jodi Levine
July 27, 2013
I to was so sad shocked by the passing of my dr and friend of Over 25 years. there are so many fond memories of him in my mind I cannot stop crying. My condolences go out to his family and work family he is an angel in heaven now.
Diane Roos
July 27, 2013
To the most wonderful doctors I know
Kevin & Liz Gillespie
July 27, 2013
My wife and I just learned of this very sad news. He was a caring and special man who was so kind to our two boys; who made their difficult deliveries seem so simple. We will miss him, however, we are so grateful to have had him in our lives for as long as we did. Our condolences to his wife, two sons and all extended family.
Elizabeth Gillespie
July 27, 2013
I, like so many, am absolutely heart broken and the tears won't stop. I've known Dr.Joel since I was 16. He was not just my doctor, but my friend and mentor. He helped me in many ways above and beyond. When I moved to Hartford county 20 years ago, he remained my doctor. I knew if I ever had children, I wanted only him to deliver. He delivered both my boys, and those moments, along with so many will forever remain in my heart. All his kind words. This world will be missing a truly amazing man and doctor. When my tears eventually stop, all my special memories will be there to treasure. I am so lucky to have had such a special relationship with this very special man. All my prayers to his family.
Debbie Donofrio
July 27, 2013
Like many others, I just received the letter from Dr Silidker's office. He became my doctor almost 30 years ago when I went into the office for an emergency visit. He was "the new guy" back then and the doctor on duty that day. He was so kind that I asked him to be my doctor from then on. I can hardly believe that was almost 30 years ago. I can not imagine your sorrow, please accept my deepest sympathies and know he will be sorely missed - his smiles, his caring, his stories about his family and the hug at the end of each visit. He was one of a kind. May he rest in peace.
Kelly Derosier
July 27, 2013
It is with great saddness that I have to say goodbye to one of the most compassionate MD's ever. He helped me and guided me through many miscarriages. Always had a hug and made me feel that I was his most favorite patient, but reading these tributes I was one of many. I hope his family is comforted by these many thoughts of deep gratitude and sincere condolences.
Diane Roos
July 27, 2013
I too opened the letter thinking it was to schedule my yearly appointment. I was in total shock to hear of Dr. Silidker's passing. I saw the date of July 6th and the tears came even harder as this was also the date of my 32 year old nephew's passing. Joel was not just my doctor but also my friend. I could not of asked for a better doctor after having a still born daughter over 2o years ago. I remember being in the hospital that night that I lost our Mary. My husband was asleep in the bed with me and I heard the door open, it was Dr Silidker. I saw him, I don't think he knew I was awake as he gently and quietly closed the door. Later while I was at work, Dr Silidker called me to see how I was coping as today would have been my due date with Mary. He asked how I was doing and was there anything that he could do. I was so touched by his calling. I told friends and family, they could not believe how kind my doctor was. I believed, as Dr Silidker was the kindness doctor I knew. He told me that I would have a healthy baby. I have two wonderful children. A young man who is 19 and a wonderful young woman who is 16. God bless the family of Dr. Silidker. He also spoke of his wife and sons in a wonderful and loving way.
Esther Theodore
July 27, 2013
I am deeply saddened by this news. Dr. Silidker made the uncomfortable humorous. He would make me laugh so much that I forgot my worries. His voice was calm and caring. He was genuine; amazing at what he did. I thank God for having allowed his life to touch my life. May you be comforted in this time mourning. May God bless your family.
Mary Brail
July 27, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Dr.Silidker. He was a wonderful,kind,compassoinate doctor. I can never thank him enough for bringing both of my children into this world. Deepest sympathies to his wife, sons & his "work family". May he rest in peace with the angels~
Karen
July 26, 2013
I was also very saddened to hear of Joel's passing. I was a patient of his for over 25yrs and he was so very supportive during my years of infertility, cancer diagnosis and then my healing. Reading the memories of his kindness to all his patients, his hugs at the end of every visit and his constant statement of 'it's a pleasure and a privilege to be your doctor' brings tears to my eyes.
I hope his family finds peace and strength in knowing what a great man and physician he was.
Mona LaBissoniere
July 26, 2013
I just opened the letter from the office. I thought it would be about some test results or an appointment. I was so shocked when I read it...and so sad. Dr Silidker was so kind and gentle. My favorite doctor. I will miss him. My condolences to his family and everyone at the office.
Christine Holtkamp
July 26, 2013
Like so many others, I just received the letter notifying me of Dr. Joel Silidker's death. I still cannot believe that he is no longer with us. I was a patient, and felt like a friend of his for over 20 years and he helped me through some difficult times. He was a kind, gentle and understanding man and truely a doctor of the patient. It was an honor and a privledge to have known him and he will be truely missed. My sympathies to his family and to his coworkers.
Leslie Naylor-Corey
July 26, 2013
I will miss him very much he was a great Doctor to me and a great person. So very sad.
Tina Mustakos
July 26, 2013
It is with tears streaming down my cheeks that I remember the amazing Doctor and compassionate man who held my hand and nurtured my soul after multiple miscarriages. He was a friend, as well as a Doctor. It felt like he mourned my losses right along with me. He believed, more than me, that I could and would carry a baby to term and it was he, who brought me to tears with his genuine joy after the birth of my son. Today, I will hug my son even tighter as I mourn the loss of Dr. Silidker. My heart truly aches. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, colleagues and patients....for a hero has truly been lost but will never be forgotten..
Dr. Joel Silidker
Lea Santello
July 26, 2013
Lea Santello
July 26, 2013
It is with a heavy heart and tears in my eyes that I write this....Dr. Silidker had been my MD since the early 80's. He was one of the most compassionate people I have ever known. My thoughts go out to his wife, son's and all his colleagues and friends, as well as those of us who had the pleasure of knowing him as a patient. What a loss, I was shocked when I read the letter this morning.
Mindy Russo
July 26, 2013
Thirty or more years ago, I was disheartened with ob-gyn's and looking for a new one... I was literally interviewing doctors...Joel passed the interview process and became the subject of my ongoing statement 'I LOVE my gynecologist'... a statement i was actually repeating today when the dr I was telling it to came out with 'Didn't he just die?' Devastated at even that possibility, I came home to find the letter....Seeing the return address, I didn't even want to open the envelope.
'Nothing I do has the right to hurt you'.. .I cannot BELIEVE i will never hear those words again from that gentle, reassuring voice; that gentle, SWEET, reassuring man...
My heart goes out to all of you.. Family, Friends, Colleagues, and it goes out to us, his patients. There will never be ANYone to take his place... nor should there be.
Susan Pawluk
July 25, 2013
I just opened my letter informing me of Dr. Silidker's passing. I thought the letter was reminding me to set my yearly appointment with him. I smiled when I saw the envelope, because Dr. Silidker was my favorite doctor. I would tell my family and friends about him, the funny things he would say, how he would listen, really listen to a concern I had, and of course the goodbye, with "it's an honor & privilege to be your doctor". Instead, after opening the envelope, I have tears in my eyes. I will miss him and the comfort & encouragement he provided me especially after breast cancer and other cancer scares. Every time I would leave his office, I felt "good" about my health & thankful for having such a wonderful doctor! As so many others have mentioned, it was great hearing about his family, how he loved them. What a loss for me, his other patients, co-workers and his dear family. You are all in my prayers tonight.
Vanessa Jones
July 25, 2013
My prayers go out to the family. My doc
for over 22 years.
There will never, ever be another Doctor like him.
July 25, 2013
I am so sorry to learn of Dr Silidker's death. I have been a patient of his for 20 years. He was always kind, able to connect with everyone and so very bright. My thoughts are with his family and I am sad.
With sympathy,
Phyllis Powell-Hodgkins
July 25, 2013
My son was born in 1985. My wife had a bit of a difficult pregnancy. I was told to go out to the waiting room, as they tried to get the baby out. This fine man, came out to the waiting room, out his arm around me, and patiently explained everything that was going on, and that everything would be alright. I have never forgot his kindness on that day and I have thought often of that reassuring 10 minutes that he gave to me. It is with great sadness that I learn of his death, but that memory will live with me until mine.
Marita Gargiulo Holl
July 25, 2013
His caring warmth and friendly spirit filled the room. A superb individual and doctor. He practiced personalized medicine before it was a buzzword. I was fortunate to be his patient for 30 years.
Rosemary Natarelli D'Antonio
July 25, 2013
So sorry to hear of Dr. Silidker's death. I have been one of his patients in the Branford office for several years. He was the friendliest Dr. I have ever been to and always made me feel at ease. My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to his family at this most difficult time.
Tracy Pereira
July 25, 2013
I just learned of Dr Joel Silidker passing, I am so sorry to hear of your loss... He was a Sweet Wonderful Person, cared for his Family and Patients as Family... He will be Greatly Missed.. Prayers of Sympathy and Healing are sent your way
Gayle Kukta
July 23, 2013
My daughter and I are both patients of Dr. Silidker's group. 12 years ago he saved my daughter's life. He helped her through her fear with his kindness. He also set a plan to get her back to health. I want to tell his family and co-workers how very sorry I am to here this very sad news. May he rest in peace, God be with you all.
Debra Franco
July 23, 2013
I just heard of Dr. Silidker passing away and I am deeply saddened. He was the kindest, gentlest and the most thoughtful doctor. I have know him since 1983 and he always was the kind of doctor you wanted to have. He will be missed and my prayers and sorrows go out to his families.
Sandy Coppola
July 23, 2013
It was such a shock to get the letter from the office telling me of the loss of Dr. Joel. I still have not come to terms with the sudden death of my doctor and compatriot for the past 24 years. I was looking forward to our visit in just 2 weeks. I can't imagine not hearing his kind words, asking what else he can do, and then catching up on family, motorcycles and horses. He was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed. What a life and legacy he has left. My sympathies goes out to both of his families - the one's at home and the ones he worked with every day. Many thoughts and prayers. It was an honor and a privilege to know him.
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