There were a Precious Few teachers who really took a genuine interest in me in Junior high & high school. Richard Jensen, Arthur Hill Band, and Gary Silvernail. I count Mr. Silvernail as one of the most important figures in shaping me to be who I am today. God rest your soul, Mr. S.
Gary Silvernail was a great man! I worked with him for several years in school bus transportation as I worked for Chesaning Schools. We shared meetings and conferences through the year. He was a delight to be around! He will be missed by so many!
My heart feels so heavy as I have learned of Gary's death. I feel especially sad that since moving to Midland from Sebewaing, I neglected to stay in closer touch. Unfortunately, tomorrow does not always come.
Our friendship grew out of the mutual love of both music and art. I gave Gary art lessons in exchange for his helping me with my lifelong wish to be able to do more with the piano than pick out one handed tunes by ear. Either I would go to his home or he to mine. I especially enjoyed our art lessons outside under my big maple trees.
What a wonderfully gentle creative spirit Gary was. His vigorous piano renditions with all their vigor wilI be in my mind forever. There will always be a special place in my heart for him.
D. Joanne Rummel
Mr. Silvernail was my favorite teacher in band and choir. He always called us his kids. Even as an adult we would see each other in passing and tell whoever he was with that I was one of his kids. He was a gentle soul and loving spirit. His love of music inspired mine. He is gone, but never forgotten. Brenda Robbins
So sorry to hear about Gary, I graduated with his sister Dolly, he was a great big brother, we had lots of fun tormenting him. I had seen him also at his home to buy blueberries. Nancy Chappel Nelson
I was a student of Mr. Silvernail's music class in the mid 70's. He was one of my favorite instructors & was glad that I got to run into him a few years back. He also was in charge of the bus routes for Swan Valley & was my mothers boss & they sure shared a few laughs over the years. I will always cherish the laughs we shared & will always remember him. Sorry for the loss to the family. Karla (Pappas) Hart
