Donald H. Silke

Donald H. Silke, 90, passed away on March 6, 2025, in Scarborough. Don was born on October 16, 1934, in Portland, son of the late John and Doris (Anderson) Silke.

Don grew up in Portland and was a proud graduate of Portland High School, Class of 1952. He went on to attend Maine Maritime Academy, earning his degree in 1955. Shortly after, Don embarked on a career as a merchant marine, sailing from 1955 to 1958. In 1957, he married the love of his life, Joyce Ann Heroux.

In 1958, Don enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving as a navigator and operations officer until 1960. In 1961, he began his civil service career with the federal government, eventually retiring in 1994 as the Director of the Shipboard Systems Division, Central Technical Activity, Military Sealift Command in Washington, D.C.

After completing his military service, Don and Joyce built their life together in Maryland while frequently returning to New England for cherished family vacations. Don had a deep love for gardening—especially his roses—boating, and playing cards. He will be deeply missed.

Don was predeceased by his brothers, Bryan, David, and Robert; and sisters, Ruth Ann, Mary Francis, Jeannie; and a granddaughter, Nichole. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Joyce; children, Shippen “Ship” Bright, Donna and her husband Kenneth Fox, Teri and her husband Philip Brown, John and his wife Vicky Silke, Steven and his wife Tami Silke, and Bryan Silke; 13 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and many beloved extended family members.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00pm on March 21, 2025at Conroy-Tully Walker South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland; a burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, South Portland.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in Don’s memory to, American Heart Association or to the Emphysema Foundation of America.