Samuel William Silva, 71

On Dec. 4, 2023, Samuel Silva, 71, of Bayview, Idaho, passed peacefully at home into the loving arms of his lord and savior.

After high school, Sam worked at his father’s gas stations in Southern California where under his supervision he learned mechanics. Sam eventually worked as a mechanic for the state of Idaho in Coeur d’Alene. After many years as a professional mechanic, there came a time when he wanted a change! He took some computer classes, training sessions and self-study with passion, then applied for and got a job as a customer support technician in Spokane, Wash., where he excelled.

Sam enjoyed being a home chef, cooking many foods which were enjoyed by family and friends. Sam took much pride in the dishes he produced. He also loved hunting, rod fishing, fly fishing, camping and boating. However, boating was his passion. He owned three boats from a small motorboat to large cruisers/yachts.

He especially loved wooden boats and restored several that were large enough to cruise, fish, barbecue and have overnight stays on. There were MANY GOOD TIMES spent over the years on the boats with family and friends. Sam was a perfectionist at the restoration of these wood boats, as well as the mechanics of all engines, outdrives, steering and electrical. He helped his son, Matt, work on his cars, trucks and house, and loved passing his knowledge on to him.

In 1972, Sam was drafted into the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged with an Excellent Sharpshooter Award.

Sam is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Pam Silva; son Matthew Silva and daughter-in-law Malissa Silva; he adored and cherished his precious granddaughter, Sydney Silva; brothers Earnie (Karen) Silva and Tim Silva; brothers-in-law Gord (Jan) Newman and Jeff (Anne) Newman; sister-in-law Deb Tobin; mother-in-law Audrey Newman; and longtime Army buddies, Randy (Jane) Meyer and Ronnie (Wendy) Meyer.

Sam loved his family and his family loved him dearly. What we wouldn’t give to hear Grandpa tell more stories of the good 'ol days.

Sam was preceded in death by his father, William “Bill” Silva; mother Emily “Lou” Silva; stepbrothers Shannon and Billy Silva; and father-in-law Alvin “Curley” Newman.

His memorial service will be at held 11 a.m. Saturday, March 2, 2024, at the Bayview Community Center, 20298 E. Perimeter Road, Bayview.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Union Gospel Mission. Please visit Samuel's online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.