Robert Wade Seniff, DDS, MS Orthodontics, 86, of 16 Fair St., Guilford, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Feb. 17.  He was the husband of 55 years to Lee Blanchard Seniff, originally of Branford.  He was born in Normal, Illinois, on Sept. 10, 1926, son of the late Russel Wade and Gladys Saraline Fry Seniff. His schooling included an undergraduate bachelor of science degree from University of Maryland in 1950, a doctorate of dental surgery from the University of Maryland in 1954, and a master of science in orthodontics from the University of Kansas City in 1960.

Dr. Seniff was an orthodontist, working out of his home office in Guilford, as well as offices in Hamden and in Lebanon, New Hampshire, for 48 years until his retirement in 2008.  He was a proud veteran, serving his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and he was a member of the Sachem’s Head Yacht Club and the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists). 

As an outdoor enthusiast, his passions ranged from skiing, to climbing, to diving, to sailing, where often his pursuit of adventure was global in scope.  Dr. Seniff’s true legacy, however, can be found in the generations of perfect smiles he bestowed upon Guilford and the Upper Valley of New Hampshire and Vermont.  His office on Fair Street was a ubiquitous rite of passage for school age children and adults.  In that role, he touched and was known to many in the community.

Besides his wife, he is survived by two sons, Dana W. Seniff of South Glastonbury and Captain Todd J. Seniff, USN of Coronado, California; a daughter, Sandy L. Seniff Haskell of Norwich, Vermont; and their spouses, Tina Seniff, Joette Seniff, and Bernard Haskell. He is also survived by six grandchildren, Hadley and Kyle Seniff, Piper and Chelsea Haskell, and Jackson and Blanchard Seniff.  He was predeceased by two brothers, Richard and John Seniff.

Private services are being planned for the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Guilford Land Conservation Trust, P.O. Box 200, Guilford, CT 06437, or to the Sharon Volunteer Fire Department,   5808 Route 14, P.O. Box 74, Sharon, VT 05065. The Guilford Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. To share a memory or leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.GuilfordFuneralHome.com.