Richard P. Silkman

Richard Prigge Silkman was born in Mount Kisco, New York on July 24, 1932 to the late Martin Reynolds Silkman and Gladys Prigge Silkman. He died on October 18, 2025 at the age of 93. He was a lifelong resident of Todd Road in Katonah, where his ancestors first settled in the mid-18th Century.
Dick grew up on his grandfather's dairy farm (Fox Valley Farm) where he milked cows, drove teams of horses and tractors, and learned farm work at a very young age. After graduating from Katonah High School, Dick enrolled in the Canton Agriculture Institute. In 1951, Dick joined the Navy and proudly served his country on the USS Sanborn APA 193 and ACM 12 minelayer.
From 1959 to 1968, Dick worked as a truck driver for Grand Union supermarkets. In 1968, he became an independent trucker and founded Fox Valley Trucking LLC. As an owner/operator until his retirement in 2004, Dick mentored many young drivers and formed lasting friendships on the road.
Dick married Beatrice Anne (Martinez) Silkman on August 22, 1959 in Mt. Kisco, New York, and was a devoted husband until her death on February 10, 2023. He was a loving father to his son Joseph Richard Silkman and to his daughter-in-law Patricia Ann (Hack) Silkman. His grandchildren Daniel (Bridget) Silkman and Katie (Sean) Mooney cherished their time with "Poppa" -- from youth football games and piano recitals to afternoons by the pool and college move-in days, he was always there to lend a hand and cheer on his loved ones.
Throughout his life, Dick enjoyed NASCAR, country music, and the NY Knicks. During retirement, he loved to restore farm tractors, maintain his property and the house that he built, and spend time with his family and friends. To all who knew him, Dick was a true gentleman who was exceedingly generous with his time and talents, and met everyone who crossed his path with patience and a smile.
There will be a private burial. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Golden's Bridge Fire Department.