Donald F. Silkey

Donald F. Silkey, 83, of Topeka, passed away on Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at his home. He was born on December 19, 1926 in Wyandotte, Co., KS, the son of Carl and Hazel Coleman Silkey. He served in the Merchant Marines during WWII. Don was employed by Lawrence Paper Company from 1946 through 1963. He later became an insurance agent with Shelter Insurance for many years before retiring in 1993. He was a member of Lakeview Church of the Nazarene. Don married Phyllis H. Buerman on June 9, 1946 at North Lawrence Christian Church in Lawrence. She survives. Other survivors include their children, Bruce (Sue) Silkey of Lawrence, Debbie (Mike) Sayler of Topeka, Brett Silkey of Topeka, six grandchildren, Bruce, Jr. (Audra), Luke (Kathy), Charley, Wesley, Angela and Chalen, five great-grandchildren, Whitney, Mallory, Katie Beth, Kari Ann, Jacob, two brothers, Ed and Werner and one sister, Lil all of California. He was preceded in death by one brother, Chuck. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave. Burial will follow in Underwood Cemetery east of Perry. Don will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home where the family will receive friends from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be given to Lakeview Church of the Nazarene, 2835 S.E. Croco Rd., Topeka, KS 66605.