J. Kevin Slyman Sr

John Kevin Slyman, retired master sergeant, of North Windham, died October 8th at Douglas Manor in Windham, surrounded by his family, after a period of declining health. He was born on January 5, 1944 in Brooklyn, NY. He was the seventh son and tenth child of Lawrence J. and Mary (Malone) Slyman. Kevin and his twin brothers, Peter and Paul, traveled with their parents to Germany, where his father (a sergeant in the US Army) was stationed. Upon returning to the U.S., they settled in Willimantic, CT. Kevin graduated from Windham High School. He joined the National Guard Reserve and later became a Career Guardsman where he recruited many people, whose calling it was to serve their community and country. In his 30 years of service, Kevin received many honors and medals for his achievements. Kevin loved the National Guard, retiring in 2004. Kevin was predeceased by his parents, brothers Lawrence Jr., James, Peter, and a sister, Margaret Caler. He is survived by his wife Janet, his son John, and two daughters, Rebecca and Jennifer, along with his grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Rose Zimmer of Erie, PA, Helen Burke of Houlton, ME, and brothers Marty Slyman of Somerset, NJ, George Slyman of New Ipswich, NH, Paul Slyman of Hampton, CT, and many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Wednesday, October 12th from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson Street (Rte. 195) Willimantic, CT. A military funeral will be held on Thursday, October 13th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Church, 46 Valley Street, Willimantic, CT. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, his family suggests memorial donations to Disabled Veterans National Foundation, 1634 Eye St. Suite 750, Washington, DC 20006. For an online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com .