Sylvan Seely

1935 - 2025

Sylvan F. Seely, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed away on May 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 89 years old.

Born on October 30, 1935, in Twin Groves, Idaho, Sylvan was welcomed into the world by his parents, Ferry Randolph and Mary Oneta Hansen Seely. He was raised in Twin Groves alongside his two brothers, Dean and Clyde, and his two sisters, Norma and Donna.

Sylvan graduated from South Fremont High School and went on to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the British Isles, a time that helped shape his deep and enduring faith.

On August 27, 1958, Sylvan married the love of his life, Gail Jensen. Together, they built a legacy of faith, love, and hard work, raising eight children, 7 daughters, and one son. Their posterity continued to grow and thrive, with 30 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and three more great-grandchildren on the way.

Sylvan farmed, raising potatoes, hay, sheep, and milk cows. He taught grade school in Parker and Ashton, where he made a lasting impact on many young lives. In 1966, he founded Golden West Irrigation (originally known as Gem State Irrigation), becoming a respected and influential figure in the local agricultural community.

He and Gail served four missions for the Church, with the highlight being their time as Directors of the Oakland Temple Visitors Center. Sylvan also served faithfully in many church callings throughout his life, always exemplifying his love for the gospel.

A man of unwavering loyalty, quiet generosity, and tireless work ethic, Sylvan was known as a "doer." Sylvan loved nothing more than spending time with his family and friends, especially out on the water in a fishing boat. He was an avid fisherman, but also a great fisher of men and was deeply devoted to teaching and living the principles of the gospel. His legacy of faith, service, and integrity continues to bless the lives of his posterity and all who knew him.

Sylvan is survived by his wife Gail, his children Susan (Peter) Gray, Jan (Marshall) Merrell, Jill Seely, Stuart (Shawna) Seely, Sylvia (Nick) Ricks, Julianna (Ryan) Thueson, Shellie (Roy) Jenkins, Jolinda (Rod) Pancheri and his brother, Clyde Seely.

He was preceded in death by, his parents, brother Dean Seely, sisters, Norma Gneiting and Donna Bright Linford.

A viewing for friends and family will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 5:30- 7:30 at the Burton East Church Building, 2332 W 2000 S Rexburg, ID 83440. Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 11:00 am at the church. Interment will follow at Burton Cemetery.

He will be remembered always and missed dearly.