Obituary of Monte Lee Silliman

Monte Silliman, age 78, entered into his eternal home surrounded by his loving family on May 19, 2022, at the Keuka Comfort Care Home. He was born in Wayland, NY to Elmer (Tug) and Juanita Fairbrother Silliman who predeceased him and graduated Dundee Central School in 1961. In 1961, he entered the US Army where he learned his lifelong career as a Crane Operator and served in South Korea and Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He was honorably discharged in 1964. Monte was a proud lifelong union member of IUOE, Local 832 in Rochester, NY. He retired in 1998 but continued to work as he was called on to jobs by the union. Monte married the love of his life and best friend, Velma Jayne on November 21, 1964, in Starkey, NY. He was a loving and devoted husband of 57 years. They enjoyed hosting large gatherings with friends and family. They wintered in Florida for the last 16 years and loved when children and grandchildren would come to vacation with them. Monte found joy in gardening, growing vegetables and he tended to his small vineyard for 20 years. He was entertained by thoroughbred horse racing and NFL sports. Monte was a member of St. Michael's Parish where he served as an usher for many years. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion-Johnson-Costello Post 355, the Moose club and the VFW. He was a loving and devoted father, grandfather and great grandfather. In addition to his wife Velma, he is survived by his 5 children; Linda Potts, Sharon Paulchel, Jon Silliman, Liz (Jerry) Marsh, Jimmy (Christi) Silliman and his grandchildren; Vanessa Paulchel, Cassie (Matt) Hufnagel, Morgan Potts, Daniel Paulchel, Jacob (Denise) Potts, Mitchell Potts, Peyton Silliman, Riley Potts, Brigham Hansen, Justice Marsh, Nancy Capps, Paxton Marsh and Great grandson-Vinny LeGrett. He is also survived by his brother, Bill (Diane) Silliman and nephew, Luke Silliman and Niece, Nena Silliman, as well as numerous nieces and nephews on Velma's side and many cousins. Monte lived a life of integrity, faithfulness, and always put family first. He loved to make the grandchildren laugh and tell stories about his life and growing up. He taught his children a strong work ethic, and what really matters in this life: God, Family and Love. He will be forever missed. In lieu of flowers, please donate to: House of Mercy, 285 Ormond St. Rochester, NY, 14605, Keuka Comfort Care Home, PO Box 107, Penn Yan, NY 14527 or The Living Well-121 East Elm St. Penn Yan, NY 14527. Friends and family may call from 12 noon to 1pm on Saturday, May 28, 2022 at St. Michael's Church, Liberty St., Penn Yan, NY; a memorial Mass will follow at the church at 1pm. Burial will be at Lakeview Cemetery, Penn Yan, NY.