Michael A. Silkey

Michael A. Silkey, 95, of Sarasota, FL and formally of Granby and East Hartland, CT, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in Sarasota, FL. Born in Westfield, MA on March 5, 1930, son of the late Walter and Samantha (Gregory) Silkey.

Michael was raised in North Granby, CT, and attended Granby schools and graduated from Simsbury High School in 1949. After high school, Michael worked on the family farm until 1953 when he enlisted in the U.S. Army. Michael was active duty in the Korean war before Honorable Discharge in 1955. After his service, Michael settled in East Hartland and took up caring for his home and gardening, often growing the best vegetable and flower gardens around. He was employed by Chandler Evans in West Hartford as an Inspector and test rig operator, often bringing in to work and sharing prize vegi's and flowers from his gardens. He remained with Chandler Evans for 33 ½ years until his retirement.

During his life in East Hartland, he served on the Hartland Board of Selectmen, Hartland Board of Finance and acted as a Justice of the Peace, where he married a niece and nephew. He bowled every Sunday night in the Simsbury bowling league. In 2005, Michael made the decision to fulfill another dream of retirement in Sarasota, Florida. Michael participated in community living and helped take care of lawns, games and enjoyed the warm weather.

Michael leaves lifelong friends, Earl Dewey of Sarasota, FL, and Edward Narvesen and family of East Hartland, as well as several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, Walter and Samanta Silkey; brothers, Fred, George, Albert, William, Walter and Richard Silkey; sisters, Eva Silkey and Betty Rainville; good friends, Francis Calabro, Dick Phair, Watson and Gladys Smith.

Graveside Services will be planned in the spring of 2026. Location of burial, East Hartland Cemetery with Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to a charity of your choice.