Robert Herman Silsbee died May 23, 2019. The youngest child of Francis and Clara Gillis Silsbee, Bob was born February 24, 1929 in Washington, D.C. Following graduation from Woodrow Wilson High School, Bob went on to Harvard University where he received a B.A. and Ph.D. in physics. He spent most of his working life as a professor of physics at Cornell University, where he served as Director of the Laboratory for Atomic and Solid State Physics (1974-79) and of the Material Science Center (1984-89). He was known for his sympathetic ear and willingness to help his students with all aspects of their lives, not just physics. Shortly after his retirement and the death of his beloved wife, Ann Loomis Silsbee, he moved to Kendal, where he enjoyed the last 15 years of his life.
Bob loved mountains, oceans, and any outdoor place in between. The intimate nooks and swimming holes of Ithaca’s gorges were central parts of his family life. The mountaineering adventures of his youth gave way to more sedate hiking trips, and sailing to beach walking, always accompanied by the ever-present camera. One of his greatest joys was traveling to distant places with family and friends.
Driven by curiosity, and a compulsive problem-solver, he was eager to find a solution to anything that presented itself, whether a mathematical challenge, mechanical malfunction, or human conflict. Though naturally introverted and inclined to go his own way, he never hesitated to reach out to family and friends either to offer help or just to keep connections strong.
Bob was predeceased by his parents, his wife of over 50 years, Ann, and his son Doug. He is survived by sons David and Peter, daughters-in-law Walker Silsbee, Charlotte Pyle and Patricia Fowler, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and dear friend Marnie Johnson.
A memorial celebration will be held on Saturday, June 15th at 2:00 in the auditorium at [email protected] In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
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SERVICES Memorial Service
Saturday, June 15, 2019 2:00 PM
Kendal at Ithaca Auditorium 2230 N. Triphammer Rd. Ithaca, NY` 14850
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