Rodney Silliman

By Sun Advocate

GREEN RIVER -Rodney Lloyd Silliman, age 52, passed away unexpectedly July 15, 2008 in Green River.
He was born Sept. 21, 1955 in Fruita, Colo., to Howard E. and Lucille L. Anderson Silliman.
Since a very young age, Rodney was always very outgoing. Everyone was his friend, no matter how young or old. Even as a preschooler, he would make his Green River neighborhood rounds to chat and enjoy snacks from his friends.
At age 5 when the local ward was being built, he understood himself to be the chief assistant construction manager. He fancied himself the supervisor of many projects as a young boy, including “working on the railroad” and his love for the railroad lasted his lifetime. He spent much time on the farm, “helping” the men with work.
Rodney loved music and played tuba with the high school band beginning when he was in the fourth grade.
He dedicated his life to Jesus at age 8 and loved and followed the Lord until the day he went to meet Him.
In his adult life, he graduated from Snow College and attended LeTourneau University in welding technology and supervision. He had a variety of jobs in construction, mining, refining and manufacturing. He pursued his personal interests in farming and mineral exploration.
He was very active in his community, holding positions on many boards and in church life.
Rod married Karen Louise Paden Jan. 15, 2005 and resided in Elkhorn, Neb., and was currently in Green River with Greg and Lindsey, his children by marriage and so much more.
They will greatly miss this man who loved them so completely and dedicated his life to them.
He is described by his friends as unique, sincere, smart and knowledgeable on many topics. Whenever he committed to something, he committed himself entirely.
His heart was large and his love for people shaped his life in the Green River community, in church and in his business relationships.
Survived by his wife, Karen Silliman; son and daughter, Gregory Steven and Lindsey Marie Gelster, all of Green River; two sisters and one brother, Judy (Jim) Bowman, Roundrock, Texas; Karen (Robert) Smith, Green River; Jeff (Connie) Silliman, Salt Lake City; mother-in-law, Donna Paden, Elkhorn, Neb.; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Larry (Sherry) Paden, Leshara, Neb.; Kathy (Charlie) Sisson, Charles (Valorie) Paden, both of Omaha, Neb.; and Richard Paden, Elkhorn, Neb.Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and a community of lifelong friends. Rodney was preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law, Paul Paden.
Funeral services were Saturday, July 19, at Green River High School. Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral of Price.
In memory of Rodney, the family suggests contributions to Salt Lake Theological Seminary.