Bernardino Silva Jr.

VISALIA, Calif. — Our dear Bernardino (Ben) Silva met his heavenly father on September 19, 2014, in Visalia, at the age of 42. Ben was born in Carmichael, California on October 17, 1971. He was raised by father and mother, Bernardino and Theresa Silva in the Sacramento area. Ben was a star athlete at Highlands High School. He played baseball, football and lifted weights. Although he gave some of his teachers a run for their money, he excelled academically. After high school, he got a full ride scholarship to attend Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon, where he played football and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in History. After college, Ben married his college sweetheart, Michelle, on September 14, 1996; they were married 18 years. He moved to Bakersfield to start his career as a Correctional Officer for the State of California and later relocated to Visalia. In his eleven years in Visalia, he established his career by promoting in the Department of Corrections and then, later, becoming a Parole Officer. He also raised his two adoring girls and fostered many valuable friendships. Ben embraced his God-given role of caring for and protecting others. He devoted much of his time and energy lending a helping hand or listening ear to family members and friends. He was a follower of Christ, actively volunteered with church youth activities and recently completed a mission to Peru with his home church. He also possessed the gift of gab. He could persuade someone to buy swamp land in Florida, negotiate his way out of any situation and prided himself on getting the best deal. He was happy, had a wild sense of humor, was a prankster and made others around him laugh. He was a true fisherman who took the opportunity to fish anyplace, anytime to magically reel in his catch. He also loved, loved, loved the San Francisco giants and made many trips with his Dad and daughter to see his favorite team in action. Ben was larger than life and made a presence here on earth that will not be forgotten. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Michelle; dad and mom, Bernardino Sr. and Theresa Silva; sister Karyn Silva; daughters, Zoe and Skye; and loving nieces, nephews and other relatives. Ben is predeceased by his sister, Geneva Lee Silva. The visitation will be held at Salser and Dillard Funeral Home, 127 E. Caldwell Avenue, Visalia, CA on September 25, 2014 from 4:00-7:00p.m. The funeral service will be held at Neighborhood Church at 5505 West Riggin Avenue in Visalia on September 26, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Steve Harms officiating. Interment to follow at Visalia Cemetery on West Goshen Avenue.

Bernardino Silva Jr.

October 17, 1971 - September 20, 2014