Lee Roy Silkwood

April 26, 1952 - September 27, 2018

Our beloved son and brother, Lee Roy Silkwood, 66 years old, passed away on September 27, 2018, to be with our Lord in his heavenly life. Lee was born on April 26, 1952, and he was the only son of Robert L. Silkwood and Elizabeth L. Silkwood, and the only sibling to his sister, Kristann Silkwood Mattes.

Lee grew up in O’Neals, California, and he enjoyed the foothills of Madera County his entire life. He was raised to be independent, and was an avid fisherman, hunter, and sportsman. Lee was never happier than when he was hunting or fishing on his family’s ranches or in other spots in our beautiful San Joaquin Valley. Lee enjoyed many life adventures, which took him to championship billiard tournaments throughout the nation, eventually making Fresno his home.

Lee was immensely proud of his family and of the Silkwood/Bigelow companies, including Ponderosa Telephone. Despite his health, Lee remained involved in the family’s endeavors. He was also a voracious reader, a self-taught expert on many subjects, and an indefatigable communicator. Lee loved to talk, was intelligent, and a great friend to have at your side. He loved being an amazing uncle to his niece, Shyann, and nephew, Bobby. Some of his favorite pastimes involved billiards, being with friends and family, and attending events impeccably dressed in hat and bolo tie! Lee will be dearly missed by his family and many friends but will be forever in our hearts.

Lee is survived by his devoted mother, Luanne Silkwood; his loving sister, Kristi Mattes and her husband Jim, and his nephew and niece, Bobby and Shyann; his cousin Frank Bigelow, his wife Barbara and their children and grandchildren; his cousin, Beth Costales, and her children and grandchildren; his cousin, Carolyn Mudge Bates, her husband Bob, and their son and grandchildren; and his cousin, Janet Mudge Kendrick, her husband Dean, and their children and grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday, November 20th at 11 a.m. at the Big Blue Barn located at 47697 Road 200, O’Neal’s CA 93645. If you would like to make a remembrance contribution in Lee’s memory, please send donations to Shriners Hospital, 1707 19th Ave in San Francisco, California 94122.