Obituary of Peter Michael Siladi

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Peter M. Siladi of Stamford, CT. Peter passed peacefully on November 7, 2023, at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough, Maine.

Loving son of Anna (nee Kish) and Louis Siladi Sr. of Stamford (both deceased), father of Dr. Katherine Harris (deceased) and Mark Siladi of Westbrook, ME and brother to Paul Siladi (deceased) and Louis Siladi, Jr. of Norwalk, CT. Peter was a dedicated family man and good citizen; he took quiet pride in his work and was loving and generous to his friends near and far.

Peter grew up with his two brothers Paul and Lou (Sonny) surrounded by the extended family of Siladi's and Kish's from Norwalk to Stamford. His parents were humble and hardworking. They instilled in him strong family values and a solid work ethic. Sundays were often spent at his parent's house with the growing brood of children from Siladi brothers and their spouses.

He graduated from Stamford High School in 1957 where he uncovered his innate talent for working with his hands in woodworking classes, skills that would remain with him for life.

He joined the Navy after high school eventually transferring to the west coast and ending up at the Miramar Naval Base in San Diego, California - home of the Navy's Top Gun programme. He served as Plane Captain, leading a team of thirty men to safely depart and land fighter jets on the decks of United States aircraft carriers including the USS Oriskany and the USS Ticonderoga on duty in the Pacific Ocean.

His love affair with aviation continued through many years as Inspector work at Sikorsky Helicopters in Stratford. His meticulous attention to detail led him to increasingly responsible roles at Sikorsky. He worked on the launch of the UH60 Blackhawk helicopter – which continues to this day as the backbone of US Army. In the later years of his career, he transferred to the Department of Defense, being selected to support the Marine Helicopter Squadron One – HMX-1, the helicopter fleet of the President of the United States.

Peter was also a traveler. He journeyed far and wide, visiting many of the US National Parks, the wilds of Alaska, the Arctic Circle in Norway and all the wat to the deep southern hemisphere of the South Island of New Zealand. And with him went his trusty camera. His eye capturing the beautiful landscapes and wildlife that he loved. His myriad photos adorned his home and the homes of family and friends.

Throughout his life, he spent time with the families of his brothers and cousins. No home project for the family was beyond his help, whether it was putting on a new roof with his Uncle John and brothers, adding a house addition or painting many, many homes of relatives. He taught his children his work ethic and the importance of family.

His nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were part of his life as much as anyone. His storytelling with the younger children was famous – and whilst he didn't actually have polar bears or elephants on his "farm", every niece, nephew and grandkid believed he did.

Having retired in Maine he continued his love of photography as well as his woodworking in his "shop". He gave help to all his neighbors to the best of his ability and made friends there as he did everywhere he went. His last projects were completed with his son to the same high standard that he maintained throughout his life.

Peter is survived by his brother Louis Siladi Jr., his son, Mark A. Siladi, his grandchildren Stephanie James of Wallingford, Maitê S. Siladi of Lake Mary, FL, Brendan Siladi and Jenna Siladi of Wellington, New Zealand as well as his great-grandchildren Cedric Hendrickson of Lake Mary, FL and Brooklynn Biggs and Kaden Mitchell-Biggs of Wallingford

Friends and family are invited to a wake at Lawrence Funeral Home, 2119 Post Road, Darien on Monday November 20, 2023 from 4 to 7 PM. A Graveside service will be at St. Johns Cemetery, Richards Ave, Norwalk CT on Tuesday November 21, 2023 at 10:30 AM. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday November 21, 2023 from 12PM-2PM at Siena of Norwalk, 353 Main Ave.

The family would be grateful for any donations in lieu of flowers to support the important work of these two organizations:

Gosnell Memorial Hospice House

Hospice of Southern Maine

390 US Route 1

Scarborough, Maine 04074

Maine Audubon

20 Gisland Farm

Falmouth, Maine 04105