Reverend Silas J. Hirte, age 91, of Delavan, Wi., passed away Friday October 7, 2011 at Willowfield Nursing Home in Delavan. He was born February 10, 1920 in Sparta Wi., the son of Christian and Laura (Lang) Hirte. Rev. Hirte was a graduate from the Wisconsin School for the Deaf in Delavan, Wi. and a graduate from Galluadet University.
He was ordained on December 3rd, 1950 in St. Louis Mo. He has ministered to the deaf for 65 years from various churches. Starting in St. Louis Mo. to Il., Ky. to Ark., going into semi-retirement in Syracuse N.Y., then being called back to work in Molile, Alabama. Finally retiring to Delavan, Wi.
Silas was the first deaf Mason and Shriner. He was also a very avid stamp collector, often knowing of news of current events before they happened through his stamps. As a young man he was a polit who flew bi-planes and his love for aviation is carried on by his twin sons who both fly. He has co-authored and was involved with several sign lanuage books and was also involved in the 'Clown Ministry'
He is survived by his loving wife, Betty of Delavan, a daughter, Patricia (Richard) Gustafson, twin sons, Christian (Cheryl) and Richard (Grace). 5 grandchildren, Michael, Benjamin, Jonathan, Joseph and Katherine. He is preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral Services will be 1:00pm Monday, October 10, 2011 at Christ Episcopal Church in Delavan, Wi. with Fr. William Myrick officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00pm to service time at 1:00pm at the church. Memorials may be made to Christ Episcopal Church or to the Wisconsin School for the Deaf Museum. MONROE FUNERAL HOME in Delavan, Wi. is assisting the family. Visit us at monroefh.com
