Garrett 'Jerry' Silva, 68

Garrett “Jerry” Silva passed away Feb. 2, 2013, in Rathdrum where he resided. Jerry wrote the following before moving to Idaho.

Aloha,

I’m writing this myself in preparation for the inevitable! I’m also saving my family from having to do it after I’m gone (aren’t I thoughtful!).

I’ve had a great life! Starting in Hawaii where I was born to Bella and Manuel Silva in 1944. I came to Eureka at the age of 12 and what a culture shock it was! Not to mention the different weather! From sun all year around to cold rain and fog! But I grew to love Eureka and surroundings.

I grew up in a large loving family. Mom saw to that. My sister Lani and my three brothers, Mel, Al and Buz, and I kept her busy. We always had a houseful of friends, a family and good food.

After Eureka High School I worked for G.P/L.P./Simpson (all one in the same) at Samoa. I met some good friends there. I retired in 2006 after 44 years (that was enough).

I met my wife, Sheryl, when she was 11 years old and for some unknown reason way back then I knew I was going to marry this girl. We married in 1965.

My life has been my family. We have one son, Jay, who has always been a source of pride and never once let me down. As a little boy he kept us busy with all his activities, mostly sports. As an adult, he has become my best friend, along with Sheryl. We raised him as if we knew

what we were doing and he became a loving, responsible adult with a big heart and a great sense of humor.

Jay also picked a great wife, Kishna, and they gave us two wonderful grandkids, Kylie and Isaac. Both are super special. I love both of them dearly and know they will grow to become all they want to be.

Remember, kids I’m patting my heart.

I had great fun coaching Little League Baseball. Did a little coaching of Pop Warner Football and worked some Redwood Swim Club swim meets.

Years later it would blow me away when I would run across a grown man who would ask me “How you doing, Coach?”

I liked to travel and Sheryl and I have been on many fun trips. Going back home to Hawaii was always one of my favorites.

I also want to say Aloha to my many aunties, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

To my wonderful family near and far I say, shed a few tears for me if you must, but then get on with your life. I would have if I could have.

See ya, love ya, bye.

— Garrett "Jerry" Silva

A memorial/celebration of life will be held at a later date in Idaho.

Please sign Jerry's guest registry and view his online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.

Though his smile is gone forever,

And his hand we cannot touch,

We still have so many memories

Of the one we loved so much.

His memory is our keepsake

With which we’ll never part.

God has him in His keeping,

We have him in our heart.