Frank Silkman

Frank Silkman, age 96, passed away peacefully on January 23. He lived a long life defined by devotion to family, service to his country, dedication to the world of corporate management, and enduring values.

Frank was born in Sayre, Pennsylvania, to Robert and Elizabeth (Keeler) Silkman, and grew up in Waverly, New York. At the age of 18, Frank entered the United States Marine Corps, answering the call to serve his country. He served overseas during the Korean Conflict, an experience that shaped his lifelong sense of responsibility, resilience, and quiet patriotism. He later attended the Rochester Institute of Technology, where he met the love of his life, Jean Ormsby, and they were married in 1953.

After graduating from RIT, Frank pursued a career in management, working for IBM and Data General. Through his work, the family lived in upstate New York, Canada, Minnesota, Colorado, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. Frank and Jean later retired to Florida in 1996, giving Frank lots of time to spend on two of his favorite pursuits- golf and his coin collection. But more than anything, Frank treasured summers spent in Canada at the family cottage on Gull Lake, where he enjoyed time with family, nature, and friends. Nothing made him happier than time spent on the lake fishing, water skiing, and cruising down the lake in his boat. One of his most favorite pastimes in the world was simply sitting on the cottage deck, gazing at the lake.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Frank was known for his steadiness, integrity, and dependable presence. He valued family above all else and especially cherished time spent with those closest to him.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Betty Silkman, and his brother Eugene Silkman. In addition to his wife, Jean Silkman, he is survived by his children, Brenda Silkman and Scott (Frank) Silkman; and his grandchildren, Loundy, Daniel, and Mitchell.

A service to honor Frank's life will be held on March 3, 2026 (more details to follow).

Frank Silkman's 96 years were a gift to his family, and his legacy of service, love, and quiet strength will live on through the generations he leaves behind.

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