On Wednesday, March 13, 2019, Holger Leonardo Silva (Also known as "Leo" to some), loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away at the age of 79 after a lengthy struggle with cancer surrounded by his family. Holger was born on July 6, 1939 in the village of Facundo Vela in Ecuador to parents Cesar Augusto Silva and Maria Alejandrina Silva Hildalgo, and was one of 9 siblings. Holger's relationship with God was strong even at an early age as he worked at a convent at the age of 11 studying to become a priest. He eventually moved on and decided to move to New York on his own at the age of 19 to live the American dream. He graduated from the City University of New York with a bachelor's degree in Architecture. Before long, he met and married Miriam Silva Salvador on August 15, 1966 and they had 3 children, Carol, Danny, and Jenny.
Holger decided that he wanted to raise his family in a safer environment and also that he had enough of the cold weather, so he moved his family to Jacksonville, Florida where he stayed until this day. He went on to work as an accomplished architect working for the Haskell Company and The Stellar Group, among a few others, before working as an independent architect. He was also named to the State Board of Architecture and Interior Design in the State of Florida.
Holger was a devout Christian and strived to live by Christ's teachings. He was also a beloved father and husband whose infectious smile was recognized by all who encountered him. He loved the sport of tennis. On any given day, you could catch Holger and Miriam on the neighborhood tennis courts or watching any match on tv happily at home. He loved watching his grandchildren play soccer, tennis, and/or basketball. He was an active person who loved to travel and was always ready to embark on a new adventure with his family. Holger was loved by so many and will be missed greatly.
Holger is survived by his loving wife Miriam Silva; his children Carol Suhrer (Dr. Scott Suhrer), Danny Silva, Jenny Silva; 3 grandchildren Mark Suhrer, Ryan Suhrer, and Andrew Suhrer; and siblings Eva Romero, Rosa Portilla, Estella Robalino, Alberto Silva, and Efrain Silva.
A memorial mass will be held on Friday, March 29, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 2609 Park Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204. There will be a reception to follow the service at the church.
HARDAGE-GIDDENS EDGEWOOD CHAPEL, 729 Edgewood Avenue South, is serving the family.
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